t 



ESSAYS 

ON 

LANDSCAPE GARDENING. 



LONDON : 

PEIKTED BY S. AND E. BENTLEY, DORSET-STKEET. 



ESSAYS 



ON 



LANDSCAPE GARDENING, 



AND ON UNITING 



PICTURESQUE EFFECT 



WITH 



RURAL SCENERY: 



CONTAINING 



DIRECTIONS FOR LAYING OUT AND IMPROVING THE GROUNDS 



CONNECTED WITH A 



COUNTRY RESIDENCE. 



ILLUSTRATED BY SIX PLATES. 



BY RICHARD MORRIS, F.L.S. 



SECRETARY TO THE MEDICO-BOTANICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON, AND AUTHOR OF 

" THE BOTANIST'S MANUAL." 



J 0 

J- 



I' ' 



i LONDON: 

PRINTED FOR J. TAYLOR, AT THE ARCHITECTURAL LIBRARY, 

HIGH HOLBORN. 

1825. ■ 




Pat. Office Lilb. 



PREFACE. 



Many works have been written on the Scientific and 
Botanical branches of Horticulture, while few have ap- 
peared descriptive of the ornamental and decorative parts 
of the science, particularly those which relate to the 
tasteful display and improvement of Pleasure Grounds. 

Taste, which is so various in all pursuits, may perhaps 
be more easily defined when applied to the principles of 
Landscape Gardening, than in any other department of 
Art, where Taste is deemed essential to its importance. 

There are beauties in Nature on which no contrariety 
of opinion exists, and there are also deformities offensive 
to every cultivated mind : on these assumptions. Decorative 
Horticulture claims to be considered an Art, professing, as 



VI PREFACE. 

it does, to remove or veil objects repulsive to pleasing 
sensations — to introduce objects of taste, and to excite 
ideas of refined or delightful associations. Under these 
considerations, it is presumed that a Work, having for its 
basis a taste derived from Nature in her most agreeable 
forms and hues, and connected with the beautiful and 
picturesque, will prove acceptable to those who inquire 
into this interesting subject, or who contemplate the im- 
provement of their domains. 

The theoretical Works which have appeared, have 
been eminently serviceable in promoting a taste for 
Landscape Gardening, by exciting an inquiry into its 
principles, and a desire to see them reduced to practice. 

The elegant Works of the late Mr. Repton have fur- 
nished many admirable examples of judicious and beau- 
tiful improvement in Scenery surrounding Villas and 
extensive Domains ; indeed the face of the country, where 
his abilities have been called into action, has bloomed 
with additional beauty. 

On the subject of the Picturesque, the Essays of Mr. 
Price may be considered to stand unrivalled : in the con- 



PREFACE. yj| 

troversy which existed between Mr. Price and Mr. Repton, 
much has been elicited, and each has contributed im- 
portant information on the subject ; and also on the ever- 
varying beauties connected with Landscape Scenery and 
picturesque effect. 

The elegant and pleasing Works of Mr. Gilpin also 
have had an extensive influence in promoting correct 
ideas of natural scenery. These Works are evidently the 
productions of an enlightened mind, deeply conversant 
with Nature in all her varied combinations. 

Other writers on Landscape Scenery and Ornamental 
Gardening have thrown considerable light upon the dif- 
ferent branches of the Art : among these, Shenstone, 
Mason, Knight, and Whately, have richly contributed ; 
for to them 

" Nature had unveiled her charms." 

That these Essays may concentrate scattered but in- 
structive hints, may unite the result of an earnest appli- 
cation to the effects of natural scenery as connected with 
the Art of Landscape Gardening, may combine the in- 
formation derived from professional pursuits in laying 



viii PREFACE. 

out grounds, and that the annexed six Sketches may 
serve to elucidate some particulars where description 
might fail, and render the precepts contained in this 
Work both clear and useful, is the sincere desire of 

THE AUTHOR. 

41, Vincent Square, Westminster, 
May 1825. 



4 



CONTENTS. 





INTRODUCTION 


Pag? 1 


Essay I. 


SITUATION AND STYLE OF BUILDING 


9 


II. 


EXTERNAL DECORATIONS 


18 


III. 


LAYING OUT GROUNDS 


21 


IV. 


PLANTING . . . . 


40 


V. 


WATER 


59 


VI. 


RURAL ORNAMENTS . . . 


65 


Vlt. 


DISTANT SCENERY .... 


78 


VIII. 


GENERAL APPEARANCES 


83 



b 



INTRODUCTION. 



Landscape Gardening has very properly been termed an imitative 
art, for its object is to arrange, to form into symmetry, and to beautify 
particular scenes, in agreement with the great original, — Nature ; and 
the closer the adherence, the more pleasing and satisfactory will be 
the effect. Considering the advancement in the arts and sciences 
during the latter part of the last century, it is not surprising that 
gardening should have undergone improvement; indeed, it would 
have been extraordinary if this delightful art had been neglected. 

In the works of Cicero and Pliny, we read of the formal and stiff 
kind of gardening which then prevailed, such as clipped hedges 
and long avenues of trees ; and in Propertius we read of the intro- 
duction of statues and jets d'eau. Pliny the younger has given an 
account of his Villa at Laurentinum, situated some distance from 
Rome ; he describes a variety of building attached to it, and the 

B 



2 INTRODUCTION. 

garden as being surrounded with hedges of Box, and that this 
Villa was admired for its extensive prospects. 

From the establishment of the ecclesiastical government of the 
Popes in the eighth, to the end of the twelfth century, the Monks 
were nearly the only class of persons in Europe who attended to 
arts and sciences generally, and to decorative gardening in particular. 
After which period, the style of gardening practised in Italy and 
other civilised parts of Europe, consisted principally in tall clipped 
hedges, square parterres fantastically planted, straight walks, and 
trees uniformly lopped. 

There can be but little doubt, that the Romans first introduced 
gardening into this country ; yet it was little attended to till near 
the latter end of the sixteenth century. We are informed that 
Hampton Court was laid out and planted by Cardinal Wolsey, and 
that King Charles the Second employed Le Notre to plant the Parks 
of Greenwich and St. James's. Charles also planted the semicircle 
in Hampton Court. Cashiobury, an ancient seat of the Earls of 
Essex, was admired, in 1680, for being adorned with walks, ponds, 
and other such elegancies. In 1683 the grounds of Wanstead House, 
Essex, Sir Josiah Child's, weje considered worthy of notice. In the 
reign of George the Second, Queen Caroline enlarged and planted 
Kensington Gardens, and formed what is still called the Serpentine 
River by uniting a number of defached ponds. Lord Bathurst was 



INTRODUCTION. 3 

the first who deviated from straight lines, as apphed to decorative 
pieces of water, by following the natural curves of a valley, when 
widening a brook at Ryskins, near Colnbrook. Lord Stafford, sup- 
posing economy to have been the motive, inquired, " What would 
have been the additional expense to have made the banks of this 
piece of water straight ?" 

It appears surprising, while pursuing this subject from the time 
of Vespasian or Titus to the reign of George the Third, to find 
that little improvement had been made in the style of Landscape 
Gardening. 

About this period, improvements more natural and elegant were 
introduced by Kent, Brown, and others, which met with such general 
approbation, that Sir William Chambers was induced to say, " If this 
mania be not checked, there will not remain three trees standing in 
a line throughout the kingdom.'^ Since that period, however, the 
taste for natural scenery has so much improved, that the specimens 
of ancient taste in Landscape Gardening are now esteemed as remains 
of antiquity ; the most respected and distinguished of which may be 
considered those grand avenues at Hampton Court and Windsor 
Forest : such noble examples may with propriety be deemed worthy 
of preservation. 

Having taken this cursory view of the progress of Landscape Gar- 
dening, it will be proper briefly to consider the nature of the Beau- 



\ 4 INTRODUCTION. 

tiful and the Picturesque : but these are terms on the true meaning 
of which much controversy has arisen ; and, as they are frequently 
alluded to in the course of these Essays, it may be requisite that 
they should be noticed with reference to the effect which each may 
produce on the mind. Ideas of beauty vary as much as those of 
taste, and the term beautiful is, perhaps, more extensively applied 
than any other in the English language, — as, a beautiful tree, a 
beautiful house, a beautiful picture, and a beautiful woman. It has 
been asserted that uniformity amidst variety is essential to the cha- 
racter of the beautiful ; yet this cannot be the criterion in all 
cases, as many objects please which possess but little variety : again, 
colour is sometimes the agent in presenting and heightening the 
character of beauty ; figure, in numerous instances, also augments 
and forcibly displays beauty; sometimes a regularly formed figure 
appears beautiful, from the neatness and exactness of its workman- 
ship ; a graceful variety, also, may be considered as another and 
striking characteristic of the beautiful, which excites pleasing sen- 
sation more often than the utmost regularity or just proportion of 
form, as a winding river pleases more than a straight canal. Ho- 
garth, for his line of beauty, adopted a waving line, like the letter S ; 
and a curved line is the universal favourite of artists. All these pecu- 
liarities, and their various combinations of effect, proceeding fi'om 
colour, regularity, and opposition, should be united and properly 



INTRODUCTION. 5 

adjusted by the Landscape Gardener, in forming or improving plea- 
sure-grounds. Park and landscape scenery are frequently viewed 
as unadorned or natural productions ; but the general effect may, 
notwithstanding, be improved and heightened by the assistance of 
art, especially by the formation or adaptation of inequalities of sur- 
face, by pieces of water, by statuary, and by ornamental buildings. 

The investigation of the various sources of pleasing ideas con- 
nected with the delight attendant upon the exhibition of beauty, 
either in nature or in art, cannot here be inquired into ; but it 
will be necessary to ascertain the distinction between such objects 
as may be considered beautiful, and such as may be considered 
picturesque, with reference to Landscape Gardening. Those objects 
which possess a degree of elegance in their construction, and give 
pleasure by smoothness and neatness in their appearance, partake 
of that quality denominated beauty ; while such objects as appear 
of an opposite character, are denominated picturesque : but, as this 
may seem to apply to the surface only, it must be observed, that 
a subject truly picturesque cannot partake in any great degree of 
regularity ; its essential is, that it be diversified and rugged in its 
appearance. A decorated lawn, or flower-garden, neatly trimmed 
and preserved in order, presents the constituents of beauty; while 
the rough and broken precipice, the sinuous and irregular banks 
of a river, display the picturesque. 



6 INTRODUCTION. 

As the picturesque requires variety, it is considered by some 
authors that smoothness must form one of its constituent parts ; and 
that variety sometimes composes one of the essentials of beauty. 
From this reasoning, it may be concluded that roughness must 
also be one of the component parts of the beautiful ; therefore, to 
avoid perplexity, it may be advisable to pause here, since many 
volumes have been written upon these subjects without affording 
a more satisfactory result than may be deduced from this brief 
sketch. What is here gleaned from the writings of others, may 
be considered sufficient to give a pretty correct idea of the gene- 
rally understood distinguishing characteristics of the beautiful and 
of the picturesque. 

Upon the subject of taste, a greater diversity of opinion has been 
entertained than upon that of beauty. Alison says, " Taste is that 
faculty of the human mind, by which we perceive and enjoy whatever 
is beautiful or sublime in the productions of nature or art.'* 

We are told by another writer, that taste is only the improve- 
ment of ideas. It may be said, every one has naturally a portion 
of taste, which is principally dependent upon education, and im- 
proved by cultivated and elegant associations. 

One author will not admit the possession of innate taste ; a second 
asserts that taste proceeds from a conscious sense of beauty; a 
third is of opinion that natural taste is that quick perception of the 



INTRODUCTION. 7 

beauties or deformities of nature which enables a person at once to 
decide. 

This subject might be pursued through numerous volumes, until 
the mind became fatigued, or perhaps bewildered, and still have 
to regret the object of research remained in obscurity. 

Thus much may be concluded upon the subject, — that taste is a 
faculty of the human mind as generally diffuse d as any other ; and 
that it cannot be limited to the refined classes of society, since 
persons in the humblest stations have discernment to discover, and to 
be delighted with, the beauties of one subject more than with another ; 
still their ideas of taste are usually of an uncultivated description, 
the objects with which they are pleased being of a ruder character 
than those which are admired by polished and more enlightened 
minds. This will induce the conclusion, that taste is a faculty 
capable of improvement by education and elegant associations. 
Although it is admitted that taste is universal, it is not believed 
to be possessed in an equal degree by all ; perhaps there is a greater 
inequality in the distribution of this, than of any other faculty with 
which the human mind is endowed. Taste is also assisted by what 
is denominated genius. The term genius is frequently confounded 
with that of taste ; but, upon investigation, the difference is ob- 
vious; — taste induces the admiration of any superior work of art, 
while genius possesses the power of producing it. A person may 



8 INTRODUCTION. , 

have taste to admire a production in the fine arts, while he has 
neither genius to conceive, nor talent to produce it ; but where there 
is genius, there will, in most instances, be taste also. 

These brief observations by way of introduction, it is presumed, 
will be sufficient, before proceeding to the subject of these Essays. 



ESSAY L 



THE SITUATION AND STYLE OF BUILDING FOR VILLAS. 



The taste which at present exists for the enjoyment of rural 
scenery, is such as to render the construction of a country residence 
of interesting importance. The principal considerations in such 
structures are, the situation and the character of the building. Un- 
der the first head must be considered the quality, the temperature, 
and the salubrity of the air, the supply of water, the facility of 
access, and although last, not least, the beauties of the prospects 
and the surrounding scenery : this latter, however, is of an improve- 
able nature, and comes more especially within the scope of this 
Essay. The next consideration is an appropriate style of architec- 
ture, and the arrangement which shall afford the requisite domestic 

c 



10 THE SITUATION AND STYT,E 

comforts and conveniences ; but as this relates more particularly 
to the department of architecture, on which numerous books have 
been published, and as the aid of eminent professors may be procured, 
it will not be expected that any extensive details upon that sub- 
ject should here be noticed. However, it may be said, there is 
scarcely any part of the Architect's duty that requires more care 
and attention than the selection of a spot well adapted for building 
either a mansion or a villa. Previously to the erection of a dwell- 
ing, it is most proper to consult the Architect as to the form and 
plan of the proposed house, and especially as to the materials ; and, 
at all times, it would be advantageous to the proprietor, and satis- 
factory to the Architect, if the Landscape Gardener were consulted 
upon the most Appropriate situation. The various dependencies and 
offices appertaining to a country villa, added to the effect that may 
be produced by well-chosen and picturesque scenery, render ob- 
vious the propriety of consulting those who have made the art of 
Lairidscape Gardening, combined with rural improvements and do- 
mestic conveniences, their peculiar study ; yet how frequently has it 
occurred, that cottages, villas, and even mansions, have been erected 
without duly considering these important points. The gross errors 
and bad judgment frequently conspicuous in new buildings, which 
of late have become so numerous, are too evident to need being 
particularised : such errors can only be avoided by duly considering 
all the required and necessary arrangements previously to the com- 



I 



OF BUILDING FOR VILLAS. H 

mencement of the undertaking. The propriety and advantage of 
consulting jointly the Architect and the Landscape Gardener have 
been urged by many, and questioned by few ; since it is obvious that 
the latter ought, in part, to possess the quahfications of the former, 
so unavoidably do his occupations blend into that art, when design- 
ing and executing decorative and horticultural buildings. 

Where extent of ground permits the choice of a spot on which 
to erect a villa, when the hill, the slope, and the valley are alike 
available, the extremes should be avoided. If a situation too ele- 
vated be chosen, however important the building and extensive 
the prospects from it, or impressive the view of it, much of its 
grandeur will be lost from deficiency of a wooded back-ground : 
it will also be too much exposed to bleak and cutting winds, to 
the constant annoyance of the inhabitants, and which also check 
the growth of vegetation, and consequently deprive the building 
of those ornamental accompaniments which contribute so powerfully 
to render the prospect at once elegant and interesting. 

Another, and by no means an unimportant objection, is the 
difficulty of access, — a sad example of which is reported of a cele- 
brated villa in the neighbourhood of London, the elevated situation 
of which has been productive of much complaint, and is said to 
overbalance all the gratifications attendant upon the most elegant 
and enchanting scenery the county of Surry can boast, which is not 
to be exceeded in beauty in any county of England. 



12 THE SITUATION AND STYLE 

Low ground, or the bottom of a valley, are equally objectionable; 
for the view will be confined, scarcely admitting of improvement, 
and a bad effect will be produced by diminishing in appearance the 
extent of the building : it will also be liable to damps, and, by being 
overshadowed, the free circulation of air will be impeded, and the 
situation will ultimately be found both unpleasant and unhealthy. 
Buildings of a light cottage description, in such situations, ap- 
pear trifling and insignificant. 

The best site for showing a villa to advantage, is on the brow 
or near the summit of a wooded hill of moderate elevation ; it is 
also the best situation for the introduction of ornamental and deco- 
rative accessories, as well in the gardens as in the shrubberies, in ac- 
cordance with the buildings or with a bold and extensive scenery. 
A villa thus placed, excites in the beholders the most pleasing ideas 
of health and comfort, and of all those various enjoyments which 
render life delightful : every particular object which is gratifying to 
the eye of taste, will be seen to advantage ; and from the surrounding 
country the effect of the whole will be impressive and lasting. 

Such a situation by nature possesses great advantages, and the 
application of the decorative parts of Landscape Gardening should 
be in conformity with the beauty and grandeur of the surrounding 
scenery ; one offensive object, one deviation from the true character 
of this enchanting spot, in any accessory, will destroy that general 
unity of effect which should be attentively studied and carefully 



OF BUILDING FOR VILLAS. 13 

preserved. That the readers may clearly understand the precepts 
here inculcated, and which are so important in the choice of a situa- 
tion for a convenient and pleasant abode, in the first Plate are shewn 
examples of houses placed in the situations alluded to ; and they are 
not imaginary, but such as may be seen in many parts of England : 
a glance at this sketch, it is presumed, will determine the correct- 
ness of what has been advanced, and which is the best situation. In 
addition to the objections against the extremes of hill or dale, the 
difference produced on the mind of the spectator by the effect of 
either, individually considered, appears sufficient to induce a deter- 
mination in favour of the intermediate situation. 

Where a villa is placed upon a hill, unsupported by its natural 
attendants, it will be found but a bad subject for the Painter's art ; 
indeed, a building cutting the line of the horizon will ever present 
a crude feature, either in a picture or in a landscape : the motives 
and objects of the Painter and Landscape Gardener, as to effects, are 
the same, — Belle nature toujours," as Rousseau enjoins. 

When a villa is placed in a low situation, however surrounded 
by luxuriant foliage, or enlivened with water, an unpleasant sensation 
is produced on the mind ; the eye turns with disgust from the cold 
and dreary situation, where no ideas of grandeur, fitness, or comfort, 
can be associated. In the intermediate situation, taste, elegance, and 
a just appropriation of the parts, present a subject containing all 
the essentials of a perfect picture ; the gentle declivity in the front. 



14 THE SITUATION AND STYLE 

the wooded screen behind, the inequahty of surface, — all conspire to 
fill the mind with sensations of pleasure and satisfaction. 

However desirable this situation for a villa may be, there are many 
particulars that claim serious consideration ; as the salubrity of the 
air, the quality of the water, the approaches, and the particular 
character of the distant scenery ; — all these necessarily form parts in 
the pleasures to be derived from the chosen spot. If the air, the 
aspect, the approach, and the preferable views respecting the dis- 
tances, be satisfactory, then the water for the house consumption 
must be examined, since it materially concerns both the health and 
the comfort of the occupiers. 

The system recently introduced of boring has considerably faci- 
litated the procuring of good water ; as in many situations, after 
forming wells at a great expense, the springs, when found, have fre- 
quently produced water of bad quality ; whereas, in the case of 
boring, all such springs are passed through, and the boring is con- 
tinued until one is discovered both wholesome and sufficient. This 
process is sometimes continued to the depth of several hundred feet ; 
the expense is inconsiderable, compared with that of sinking a 
well. 

The aspect of the house is important, as it particularly affects 
the comforts of the inmates. The North aspect is gloomy ; the East 
may be objected to, as the sun shines upon it early in the morning 
only ; the West is objectionable, on account of an excess of sunshine ; 



OF BUILDING FOR VILLAS. 15 

the South-west is not good, inasmuch as the rains are the most 
frequent from that quarter ; the South is good, but the South-east 
aspect is considered the best. 

The Architect will necessarily be consulted on what relates to 
the internal plan of the habitation, — the arrangements of domestic 
convenience, and their correct appropriation ; but, in reference to the 
prospects from particular rooms, the skill of the Landscape Gardener 
will contribute much in aid of a just determination. The sitting- 
room for the family should command a view of some portion of 
the pleasure-ground; and in this prospect should be introduced 
a variety of evergreen shrubs, that the scene may appear lively 
throughout the year. From the drawing-room, and others of occa- 
sional resort, the elegancies which the grounds possess, or which 
can be exhibited, should be seen, leading the eye as well to the home 
as to the distant scenery ; and in these views should be introduced 
such objects as are adapted to raise emotions of pleasure and 
admiration. 

In taking occasion to introduce the following hints connected with 
architecture, it may be proper to state that they are submitted with 
deference, not to intrude upon the profession of the Architect, but 
merely as connected with the subject under discussion, and colla- 
terally to the profession of the Landscape Gardener. 

The architecture or style of a country villa may be now con- 
sidered ; and the great object is to combine neatness with elegance. 



16 THE SITUATION AND STYLE 

The Grecian and the Gothic styles of architecture prevail alike in 
our modern villas. The florid Gothic is not in such high esteem 
as heretofore ; the great expense of the ornamental carving, on which 
its character depends, may be considered one of the causes ; there is 
also a solemnity in the style more suited to the sublime, and to 
a religious character of scenery. The castle Gothic is an imposing 
style; its character is strength, and as it carries the mind to cir- 
cumstances of romance and chivalry, it is suited to wild and 
romantic scenery, and it unites well with the bold and the pic- 
turesque. The beauty of the Grecian style demands a corresponding 
elegance in its situation. Mr. Price has observed, that " Whatever 
comes to us from the Greeks has an irresistible claim to our ad- 
miration ;" and adds, that " Their architecture has justly obtained 
the same pre-eminence as their sculpture, poetry, and eloquence." 
Too frequently, in our modern buildings, a mixture of the Gothic 
and Grecian styles may be observed ; and it is to be regretted that 
this incongruity has become more usual than either of the pure 
styles. 

The origin of architecture is of ancient date : the Grecians 
divided it into three styles, or orders; — the Doric, Ionic, and 
Corinthian. The character of the Doric is plain — perhaps the 
most agreeable to those scenes of nature which are unadorned : 
the character of the Ionic is more delicate, uniting with chaste and 
elegant scenery : the character of the Corinthian is the richest 



OF BUILDING FOR VILXAS. 17 

and most ornamental, requiring scenes of luxuriance and refined taste 
in its associations. To these the Romans added two other orders, 
the Tuscan and the Composite : the Tuscan is simple in character, 
and solid, agreeing with the solemn or grand in landscape ; the Com- 
posite, uniting in its capital the ornaments of all the other orders, 
demands the richest combinations of the most enchantino; scenerv. 
These five orders have been handed down to us through ages, and 
still retain their pre-eminence, however numerous the infringements 
and deviations that have been attempted. Fanciful architecture pos- 
sesses no particulars worthy of notice : it is degeneracy, consistent with 
the perishable materials of which it is usually constructed ; and it is 
not to be regretted, that a vain attempt to introduce a succedaneum 
to the established orders will, perhaps, be unknown to future ages. 

In rural buildings it is proper to avoid introducing the characteris- 
tics of a town residence. Where the extent of the plan is unlimited, 
the sitting-rooms should range on the ground-floor, and none but 
sleeping-rooms should be above : the various domestic offices may 
form wings to the villa, or may be detached, and a communication 
obtained by a covered passage, as circumstances may render it con- 
venient or necessary. The stables, coach-houses, drying-yard, and all 
such requisite appendages to a villa, should be at the back of the 
house, or so disposed as not to obtrude : nothing that can be deemed 
derogatory to the general character of a gentleman's residence 
should be seen from the windows of an elegant villa. 

D 



ESSAY II. 



EXTERNAL DECORATIONS. 



In treating upon the fitness of external decorations to villas, it 
is proposed to consider such as may rather be termed horticultural, 
than architectural appendages ; as the veranda, the green-house, the 
conservatory, &c. Ornaments of this description, if appropriately 
arranged, at all times appear interesting ; and, while they contribute 
to improve the beauty of the scenery, they afford occupation and 
amusement to the inmates, and are requisite in the grounds of 
the mansion and the villa. 

A veranda of proper height, judiciously surrounding a dwelling, 
produces a pleasing effect from without : it yields shelter from the 
rays of the sun in summer, and protection from rains in winter ; it 
affords also an agreeable covered walk, which may be enlivened by 



EXTERNAL DECORATIONS. I9 

a pleasing variety of evergreens, and should be decorated in con- 
formity with the surrounding scenery. 

Amongst the variety of useful and decorative buildings that may 
with propriety be attached to a villa, is one constructed to answer 
the purposes of a green-house in winter, and a pleasant retreat in 
summer. The building is formed like a conservatory, and paved in 
fanciful figures of selected pebbles or coloured stones, on which the 
plants may stand; or they may be placed on stages as in a green- 
house. The front of this building is so constructed, that the 
lights and frames may be removed in summer, and an open tem- 
porary ornamental front introduced, with Venetian blinds and cur- 
tains; and green-house plants at this season being placed out in 
the air, the interior may be ornamented with a succession of 
blooming plants, — those ever pleasing objects of all-inspiring nature. 
In the winter season, the building may reassume its character 
of a green-house with little trouble or expense. The damps of 
a green-house may be prevented from affecting the dwelling, if 
they communicate, by a partition of glass, or a glazed porch, through 
which the flues should pass ; which will effectually obviate every 
unpleasantness that may arise from the conservatory being attached 
to the house. 

A tasteful disposal of such offices as are indispensable to a residence 
in the country is of great importance, and yet convenience must not 
be sacrificed to ornament ; therefore, when they can be made to 

D 2 



20 EXTERNAL DECORATIONS. 

possess both requisites, and be disposed so as to arrange in con- 
formity with the architecture of the principal structure, it will be de- 
sirable to build them of suitable size and character, for the purpose of 
increasing the general magnitude of the appearance. Where the 
offices cannot with propriety be attached to the residence, they 
may nevertheless be advantageously shown, since they give beauty 
and picturesque effect to the scenery, particularly if their character 
partake of grandeur. A portico or colonnade, in many instances, will 
add considerably to the beauty of a villa or mansion ; but neither 
should be adopted unless in perfect accordance with the style of 
both building and scenery. These decorations are not applicable 
to the cottage, where simplicity and neatness are the leading cha- 
racteristics. 

Many windows in vievN^ from one point have a bad effect, from 
the monotony, and should be particularly guarded against. If a 
a number of windows be requisite for internal convenience, a curved 
form may be given to such as seem most to require alteration, or 
a bow may be projected, but regulated by symmetry and in agree- 
ment with the style of the building. 

As a concluding remark, it may be repeated, that every species of 
incongruity should be avoided; and every additional object not in 
harmony with the character of the building and scenery should be 
rejected, as offensive to the principles of art, and irreconcileable to 
the dictates of good taste. 



ESSAY III. 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 



To form the surface of the grounds which surround the proposed 
villa, demands all the skill of the Landscape Gardener : it is by 
the judicious employment of the power to create unequal surfaces, 
to obscure or obliterate existing deformities, and to render con- 
spicuous those beauties which are hidden or neglected, that forms 
the basis upon which the elegance and importance of the art is 
erected. It is of the utmost consequence that the entire design 
should be seen as with a painter's eye ; that the projected outlines 
of buildings, shrubberies, woods, &c. should be discerned at the 
commencement, should regulate every exertion during the progress, 
and promote the intended display of nature and art in the com- 
pletion. 



22 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

Natural objects should ever be presented to the sight, though 
the means by which they are obtained be laborious and artificial. 
It is by practice and intimacy with the subject, that the Landscape 
Gardener is enabled to decide where and how improvements may be 
effected; for there is a material difference between altering and 
improving, as many theorists have discovered too late. It is not by 
forming in the mind's eye a rural scene, either picturesque or beau- 
tiful, and desiring it to be realised, that can produce it ; there is no 
such talisman in the power of the theorist. Many designs there 
are which cannot be executed, although at the commencement of 
the work no obstacle be presented : thus expense is incurred, time 
is lost, disappointment follows unsuccessful effort, and the final 
impossibility of attaining the object confounds the projector and 
the agent. 

It is with Landscape Gardening as with painting : from observation, 
assisted by good taste, such a knowledge of pictures may be acquired, 
that the possessor shall be considered as having a perfect acquaint- 
ance with the art ; but if it be required that the possessor of this 
judgment should produce a picture of merit, the theory only of the 
art becomes a stumbling-block : the ideal subject, it is true, exists 
in the mind, but it cannot be realised by the untutored hand; 
nevertheless, the wide diffusion of correct feeling on all particu- 
lars connected with the arts is of the greatest value in Landscape 
Gardening. 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 23 

The owner of a property delightfully situated cannot be supposed 
to be insensible to its beauties ; his taste suggests an improvement, 
and the judgment by which it is regulated is founded on correct 
principles ; but if his sketch of the proposed picture be committed 
to hands unused to the pallet and the pencil, it must not be thought 
extraordinary that failure should be the result. The study of the 
Landscape Gardener, aided by a practical knowledge, enables him 
to perceive what can be effected towards the accomplishment 
of the proposed improvements, and a familiar intimacy with the 
subject teaches him how to avoid certain obstacles, or the best 
methods for their removal ; the beautiful and the picturesque of 
nature ever occupying his mind and directing his hand— 

" He best can paint them, who can feel them most." 

In considering the surface of ground, the breaks, the cavities, and 
the inequalities should be noticed ; and if the spot which is fixed upon 
for the building should be level, or that near the site of the house 
the surface should be lower than the surrounding parts, such spot 
should be raised, not merely to make it appear dry and comfortable, 
but to render it so in reality. In doing this, if the soil necessary for 
the purpose be taken from some adjoining land, the effect is more 
speedily produced, and an undulated surface may be formed in 
view from the house, which gives the desired variety, and assists, 
even where the grounds are very limited, in producing the pleasing 



24 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

effect called the picturesque. A flat surface, at all times, appears 
to contract the view, while a waved outline contributes to an 
appearance of extent. Monotony of surface fatigues the eye, and 
is insipid, compared with irregularity of contour : if nature has given 
such surfaces, then it is to be considered, whether the concave, the 
convex, or the level, be well disposed for the different points of view. 
It often happens that accidental deformities and natural excres- 
cences may be rendered ornamental, and assist considerably in 
producing the picturesque or the beautiful. 

Whatever arrangement may be made in the form of the grounds, 
it is of importance to conceal such objects as define the boun- 
dary, whether on a limited or more extensive scale. In laying 
out the grounds, much may be done to destroy the highly displeas- 
ing appearance of a fence ; and although fences must of necessity 
be used, it is bad taste to exhibit them as a surrounding border 
with a walk in the front, which too much defines and invites to 
an examination of the limits of the property. 

Of roads, the most considerable should be that leading to the 
mansion : the entrance into the park must be fixed upon before 
the line is marked out, and advantage should be taken of some 
well-grown tree or plantation, in a wide part, or at a sweep on the 
public road, from which to form an easy and convenient entrance. 
It is not considered good taste to branch one road from another 
at right angles ; and in directing the course of a drive or walk. 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 25 

nothing can be more annoying than the prospect of a straight line, 
over which one is to travel after having previously surveyed it; 
and it is rendered more objectionable when the object approached 
is immediately before the eye : — an example of this is in the 
approach to an extensive mansion in the North of England, where 
a straight road through the park, two miles in length, leads up 
to the house, which is ever in view ; first in semblance of a cot- 
tage, then as a respectable house, and finally as a magnificent and 
elegant mansion, which is its true character. 

Where there is no diversity in the line of the road, nor change 
of object, the mind becomes wearied of the sameness, and the 
grandeur of the mansion is lost, which should burst upon the view 
in all its impressive magnificence ; but when the road is conducted 
in a winding direction, the object now hidden, now viewed to ad- 
vantage, the imagination is excited by the variety ; and although 
the route may be more circuitous, this is fully compensated by 
the beauty and interest of the scenery. It is desirable that distant 
parts of the road should be seen from the house; the colour, as 
well as the objects occasionally moving on it, enliven the uniformly 
green hue of the park. It is equally worthy of consideration, 
that the road should not command a view of the pleasure-ground, 
nor approach the front of the house. An occasional view of the 
house through trees has a good effect; and from some part of the 
road a burst of view, and as good a prospect of the mansion as possible, 

E 



26 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

should be presented, that the first impression may be favourable : 
this may be deemed taking the visitor by surprise, but it is justi- 
fiable, as a good exterior is considered evidence of an agreeable 
interior; and if any object on the approach appear crude or in- 
significant, an increased exertion of art will be required to sub- 
due any unfavourable effects which may have been excited. First 
impressions generally take strong hold of the mind. An artist, who 
exhibits his works during the mediocrity of his talent, however he 
may afterward excel, finds an increase of difficulty in establishing 
a reputation; while he who has reserved his works until he can 
exhibit talent at once striking and prepossessing, finds his merit 
more immediately acknowledged. 

A sheltered walk, either for exercise or pleasure, cannot be better 
obtained, when the building will admit of it, than under a colonnade 
or veranda. From the house there must always be a main walk, 
from appropriate points of which, others should branch to the several 
parts of the garden, park, &c., and should be so disposed as not 
to command a view into any of the rooms. Gravel walks should 
be rarely seen from the windows ; where the extent of the grounds 
will admit, they should be dispersed among the plantations, with 
occasional openings upon different views : the great art in this de- 
pends upon judiciously directing the windings of the walks, and 
varying the views of artificial and natural objects, so that the spec- 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 27 

tator may not be aware he is at times nearly retracing the ground 
he has previously passed ; thus a greater extent will be made to 
appear than really exists. A straight walk, running parallel to, or 
at right angles with the house, is objectionable, from its formal and 
antiquated appearance, and is considered at variance with good 
taste; it is of the date when square beds of flowers and evergreens 
were placed with all the precision of geometrical exactness. Where- 
ever paths are turned, they should lead to the beauties of the 
scenery : hilly or mountainous walks should have gradual and regular 
ascents, at times, amidst broken rocks, interspersed with Alpine 
shrubs ; then winding through the umbrageous plantations to the se- 
questered vale, treading the banks of a gentle stream embelUshed with 
appropriate plants; then toward a piece of statuary, on the border 
of a shady grove, or to the Temple of Peace, to a cascade, or where 
a river falls and foams along its rocky bed. (See Plates 4, 5, and 6.) 
In short, such walks, if judiciously directed, lead wherever any 
object may be seen to excite admiration, or tranquillize the mind 
to calm reflection : the edge of a precipice, or of a torrent, is to 
be avoided, unless they be well guarded ; and seldom should those 
views be seen which are calculated to disturb that tranquillity of 
mind, which is best disposed to receive impressions pleasing and 
satisfactory. 

" With various prospect gratify the sight, 
" And scatter fix'd attention in dehght." 
E 2 



I 



28 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

While the direction of roads and paths is under consideration, the 
best manner of constructing them should be noticed. The system 
long adhered to, of making a foundation to the depth of nearly three 
feet, the lower part being filled with coarse materials to act as 
drainage, renders paths pervious to water; and the consequence 
is, that after heavy dews, or partial rain, they are in such a state 
of humidity as not to be walked upon with comfort. In the winter 
season, the wet weather, which frequently precedes a hard frost, satu- 
rates the walks ; the frost penetrates, and when a thaw takes place, 
they become rotten to the foundation, and are rendered quite im- 
passable. This evil is not only remedied, but much expense for 
materials and labour saved, by adopting the following rules : — Take 
from the line of the intended walk eight inches of the earth, then 
fill it up with coarse good binding gravel, and if there be large stones 
among it, they should be broken into pieces of about an inch square ; 
the whole should be firmly beaten down, after which the surface may 
be loosened with a rake ; about one inch in depth of fine gravel 
should then be laid on, and well rolled : if the foundation be im- 
bedded in a layer of chalk, it becomes more adhesive, and by taking 
care to lay the walk so that the water may be conducted to par- 
ticular parts, and thence carried off by drains, the surface will be 
rendered firm, clean, and dry, at all times. 

There is an error in making the surface of walks too round ; it 
lessens in appearance the real width, and renders them unpleasant 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 29 

to walk upon: and when rounded, it should only be where they 
are of great width, and then three inches of height in a segment 
of fifteen feet will be found quite sufficient. Walks of six feet or 
less in width, would be more pleasant if made with a flat surface, 
having one side of the walk one inch only lower than the other : this 
will not be observable, but yet will be sufficient to carry off the 
water ; which, except in heavy rains, will sink into the adjoining 
ground. Walks thus constructed will be, in every respect, more 
satisfactory than those made upon the old system. 

One of the most pleasing ornaments to a villa is the flower- 
garden ; it is calculated to encourage a taste for the beauties of 
nature, and is one of the most rational, healthful, and agreeable of 
pursuits. The encomium that Lord Bacon bestows upon a garden 
is as lofty as it is just : he says, "It is the purest of human pleasures." 
The situation of this delightful retreat should not be distant from 
the house ; it should be of easy access, and so situated, that it may 
be surrounded by a plantation, (see Plate 3,) for the purposes 
of shelter and retirement : it may sometimes, with good effect, be 
made to range with a conservatory attached to the residence, but 
this must depend on the position of the villa, and the form of the 
adjacent grounds ; it is an additional gratification to step from the 
conservatory into the flower-garden. 

When the ground allotted for the flower-garden is of such extent 
as to admit of some portion being grass and shrubs, an uneven sur- 



30 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

face may be made to exhibit effects truly delightful ; and where it 
is small, and intended only for flower-beds, a gentle declivity pre- 
sents opportunities to increase the beauties of the variegated blooms 
of heart-delighting nature. Particular care should be taken against 
an excess of moisture. 

It would be difficult to lay down general rules for the formation 
of beds in the flower-garden, as so much depends on the taste of 
the proprietor ; but it is a matter worthy of observation, that those 
forms which approximate to regularity, as circles, ovals, segments, 
squares, triangles, octagons, &c. are not so well adapted for pictu- 
resque effect as irregular forms. 

On looking over a number of flower-beds of geometrical shapes, the 
eye becomes familiar with them at a glance, and is soon tired of their 
formality ; but when the forms are varied, and such as cannot readily 
be carried in the mind, the additional charm of perpetual novelty 
is a strong inducement to retrace the enchanting scene through all 
the varieties of form and beauty. (Plate 3.) 

For the walks of a flower-garden gravel is preferable to grass : 
although, where the walks are numerous, grass may have the better 
appearance, yet the difficulty in keeping it neat, and free from 
moisture, gives to gravel a decided preference. 

The edges for the beds may consist of various species of saxifrage, 
statice, and other small Alpine plants : a turf verge is preferable to 
box, as it partakes less of formality. 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 31 

A rosary is a delightful appendage to a pleasure-garden, and 
should ever be introduced where the grounds are extensive, or where 
a diversity is required. The walks about the pleasure-ground occa- 
sionally breaking in upon such embellished scenes as these, produce 
very pleasing effects. The rosary is at all times an interesting 
object ; the great variety of the rose tribe permitting a constant suc- 
cession of flowers, renders the scene attractive throughout nearly 
the whole of the year. The climbing varieties are applicable to 
forming festoons, running upon wire-work. 

In an extensive pleasure-ground, some portion should be appro- 
priated to American plants : if any part of the ground be damp, it 
may be allotted to this very beautiful tribe of shrubs ; they grow 
luxuriantly in moist situations, in peat, or bog-earth. The perfection 
to which American shrubs attain in this country, the majority of 
them being evergreens, and the beauty of their flowers, jtistly en- 
title them to be ranked among the most agreeable and ornamental 
shrubs, which the perseverance of man has naturalized to our cli- 
mate, and cultivated in our gardens. 

The kitchen-garden is an appendage to a country residence of 
such utility and importance, that it deserves the utmost attention. 
In selecting a spot for a kitchen-garden, it should be so situated 
that it does not interfere with, or obstruct, any of the views from the 
front of the house ; it will, in general, be better situated towards 
the back of the house, for the convenience of a free communication 



32 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

with the domestic offices, as well as for its arrangement with the 
surrounding scenery. It is inconvenient to place it too distant from 
the house ; it should, if possible, be made to arrange with the shrub- 
beries which are attached to the pleasure-ground : this may be 
managed with good effect by having a communication from the plea- 
sure-ground, through the orchard, to the kitchen -garden. (Plate 2.) 

A South or South-east aspect is the best, and a gentle declivity 
is preferable to a flat surface ; an elevated situation would expose 
it too much to bleak winds, while a valley would subject it to damp- 
ness, and deprive it of a free circulation of air; a shelter by planta- 
tions should always be provided, dependent on the local situation, 
but the North and North-east winds should be amply guarded 
against : the forcing-ground especially requires protection from the 
cold quarters ; but in no instance should any part be overhung with 
trees, as the stagnant air becomes injurious. In some situations, it 
may be found necessary that the kitchen-garden should have a 
plantation round the whole, as a screen : in such cases it should be 
at such a distance from the garden as to admit of the walls being 
planted on both sides with fruit-trees ; it should afford shelter, but 
exclude neither sun nor air. 

The quality of the soil for a kitchen-garden must be particularly 
observed : this, it is true, may be improved by art, but it will be 
impossible to improve a bad situation. An ample depth of good 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 33 

soil is very important ; and should it not be sufficient, a considerable 
expenditure must be incurred to render it so : the depth of good 
soil should be at least two feet ; the most desirable is a black vege- 
table earth, or a rich free-working loam, not tenacious of wet. 
Should a desirable situation present itself as to aspect and general 
convenience, and the soil not be found of so tractable a nature as 
could be wished, or should a garden be already formed on an im- 
proper spot, then it will be requisite that the designer or person 
conducting the ground-work should be conversant with the nature 
and treatment of soils generally, their chemical properties, and the 
best methods of correcting such as are bad. 

In the improvement of land, first ascertain whether it be over- 
charged with wet ; if so, draining must be resorted to. The cause of 
the retention of moisture must be investigated, — whether it proceed 
from the surface being of so tenacious a nature as to retain the 
water, or whether its base be of an absorbent quality. Having 
discovered the cause, the best mode of rectifying the evil is then 
to be considered. 

For surface moisture, hollow drains of about two feet deep should 
be formed, their direction being regulated by the position of the 
land : if there be a great declivity, they should run diagonally ; 
for, if carried in the direction of the land, the course of the 
water wears away the sides and chokes up the drain, and such 

F 



34 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

a direction does not so effectually answer the purpose as a diagonal 
drain. The number and direction of the main-drains must also be 
regulated by the situation of the ground, and the flow of water likely 
to pass through them ; one main-drain will frequently be found suf- 
ficient for an acre : the branch-drains must be conducted on their 
descent into the main-drain, at acute angles, as a preventive from 
obstructions. The dimensions of the main-drain must be greater 
than the branch-drains; but much depends on the material to be 
used. When curved tiles are used in stiff land, the drains are cut 
with an angle at bottom, having shoulders for the tiles to rest upon : 
these drains, in many situations, have answered every expectation. 
Stones are sometimes employed for filling up drains ; brush-wood is 
also used, as black-thorn, alder, beech, &c. It has been ascertained 
that any of these placed in a drain while in a green state, have 
lasted for many years. 

When land is of a stiff and cold nature to any considerable depth, 
and retains water on its surface, it is necessary to cut the drains 
entirely through it to a new stratum, which will frequently be 
either gravel or sand ; and it must be observed, that unless the 
draining be effectually accomplished, the fruit-trees and crops will 
not flourish. 

When the moisture of the ground proceeds from springs, it is 
necessary to ascertain where they originate, by boring, or by cutting 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 35 

a drain to the suspected spot. If the springs be numerous, drains 
should be constructed in proper directions ; and if there be an 
abundant discharge of water, substantial drains must be formed 
of brick or stone, as an effectual discharge to all obtrusive 
springs. 

Having cleared the surface of all superabundant water, the appli- 
cation of materials to correct and improve the quality of the soil must 
be considered. Clays of every description are the worst soils for 
gardens : some clay is so tenacious and hard, that it is extremely dif- 
ficult to subdue it; other kinds are so poor, they absorb whatever 
manure is applied, and being retentive of wet, impede and destroy 
vegetation ; the compressed and solid masses they form render the 
soil impervious to the fibrous roots of plants. Sand is the best cor- 
rective of clay, and sea-sand, if it can be procured, is preferable, 
as it possesses in some degree calcareous matter and saline pro- 
perties. 

Chalky land is generally dry, and may be improved by the appli- 
cation of marl, or loam and manure. In the use of marl, it is im- 
portant to ascertain what proportions of clay, sand, or calcareous 
'earth it contains, as on that must depend the quantities of the cor- 
rective to be applied. 

liight, open, and poor grounds, may be improved by the intro- 
duction of rich loam and rotten manure, with occasionally a portion 



36 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

of peat. Lime may be applied as a simple dressing, or when com- 
pounded. 

Where lands are discovered to possess iron or other metallic sub- 
stances, lime is the best corrective, and an excess of vegetable matter 
in the earth will be the most readily decomposed by it. In some cases 
lime has proved to be pernicious to land ; but the cause has been 
that the limestone possessed a portion of magnesian earth, and mag- 
nesia, being less attractive to the carbonic gas of the atmosphere, has 
in consequence remained in its caustic state, which is highly per- 
nicious to vegetation ; but pure limestone, after being burnt, readily 
absorbs carbonic gas, which renders it of a fertilizing quality. Car- 
bonate of lime, or chalk, is of the greatest service to wet land, as it 
possesses in an eminent degree the quality of absorption. Wood- 
ashes act on the same principle. Soot is a good manure, as it con- 
tains a volatile salt, with a portion of oil : it should be applied as 
a compound with vegetable mould. 

The soil from a pigeon-house is most powerful in its action : it 
should be applied as a compound only ; it proves excellent when 
mixed with wood-ashes. 

The manure from the cow-house should not be used alone, nor 
should it ever be applied to wet and heavy lands, from its being of 
a cold nature and reluctant to incorporate. 

Sea-weed is proved to be a good manure ; but there should not be 
expected from it more than one crop : it may be applied as a simple 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 37 

dressing to light warm land ; but in general it would be better if it 
were incorporated with manure, vegetable earth, and lime. Where it 
is applied as a simple dressing, it should be immediately carried to 
the ground, as it soon begins to discharge its juices. Salt may be 
used in small quantities upon some lands; rather upon such as are 
dry, than upon those that have a tendency to wet : where it has been 
used injudiciously, by putting on too great a quantity, the result 
has been unfavourable. Bones and fish are the most powerful 
manures that can be used : the oily substance which they contain 
renders them much slower than any other manure in undergoing 
a change. Fish should be applied as fresh as possible ; but so power- 
ful is its effect, that it should be used sparingly. 

Land is as frequently injured by an injudicious application of 
manures as by the neglect of them : it is very important that their 
properties be well understood, that quantities may be regulated 
according to qualities. All decayed animal and vegetable substances 
form good manures, but should be incorporated with other substances, 
according to the strength or nature of each, and should be so applied 
that their several properties maybe called into action: when this is 
effected, the gratification of seeing healthy and productive crops 
will certainly follow. 

It is not to be expected that ground-workmen should be ac- 
quainted with all the chemical properties of earths and manures ; 
but they may, with little application and observation, discover the 



38 LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 

several component parts of such as are generally applied, so far as 
to enable them to know where they ought to be used, and the effect 
they are calculated to produce. If more attention were paid to 
this particular, it would be the means of bringing poor and sterile 
lands into a state of fertility more readily, and at much less expense, 
than when proceeding upon a system, or rather no system, founded 
on mere speculation, or where the nature and properties of the 
materials used are not well understood. 

The right management and treatment of land are equally necessary 
to Agriculture as to Horticulture, and from their general importance 
and utility they should be well appreciated. 

The most appropriate site for building the forcing-houses may be 
next noticed. These are adapted for utility, but may be ranged so 
as to form an additional ornament to a villa. It is a subject of gra- 
tification to the proprietor to inspect their contents, to observe the 
fruits through their various stages of growth to ripeness and per- 
fection. The forcing-house should be in a situation of easy access, 
and should in general have a main walk in front, as visitors, in viewing 
the beauties of a country villa, take delight in seeing the perfection 
to which .the art of forcing fruits has attained. The aspect for 
forcing-houses should be South or South-east, and should be situated 
at one of the boundary-walls ; the North will be that for the aspect 
required ; and the motive for placing them near the extremity of the 



LAYING OUT GROUNDS. 39 

garden, is for the convenience of having sheds at the back for com- 
posts, garden implements, &c. Near this spot it is also convenient 
to have the melon-ground, for forcing in pits and frames, especially 
as many of the succession crops are grown here : this department 
should not be distant from the fruiting-houses. (See Plate 2.) 

It does not come within the province of this work to enter into 
details upon the construction of Hothouses ; and as there are books 
upon that subject, it may not be necessary to do more here than to 
notice their situations. 



ESSAY IV. 



PLANTING. 

I 



The ancient style of Gardening was not intended as an imitation 
of nature, but professedly a production of art : the projectors suc- 
ceeded in their design. The modern style is considered to be a 
representation of nature; and therefore all forms which do not 
partake of the original are rejected as unworthy to be introduced. 

The plantations are the most prominent features in rendering a 
country residence an object of ornament and delight, and it is in this 
department, combined with a skilful appropriation of the ground, 
that an extensive practical knowledge is required to produce all 
the desired effects ; for not only the judicious arrangement of the 
plantations, but of the various trees of which they are composed, 
demands the exercise of true taste, that the component parts 



PLANTING. 41 

may be suitably disposed, as well in contrasts of form as of colour, 
so that they may appear to advantage, when viewed individuallj' or 
collectively. This important department of the art is frequently 
undertaken by persons who may well understand the removal of a 
tree, but can be effected only by those who, from study and observa- 
tion, are acquainted with the growth and form, the character and 
colour, the opposition and harmony, of the various trees and shrubs 
which nature has so abundantly provided for the delight of man. 

A good and sufficient back-ground to a building is of great im- 
portance, and should in all cases be obtained, if practicable; as no 
house can have an impressive and interesting appearance without 
it. A plantation thus situated, not only affords protection to the 
house and grounds, but assists considerably in relieving and sup- 
porting the effect of the scene. 

It must be evident, that a promiscuous group of foliage is not 
the most suitable decoration for any particular spot, because a plan- 
tation would there be well placed : the infinite variety of outline 
that may be produced, implies various degrees of perfection ; for 
instance, if trees approximating in character and in tint of foliage 
be adopted, what is denominated a clump will be the inevitable 
result ; and such a leading outline it will be vain to attempt cor- 
recting by contrasts in the shrubbery, or by laying the axe par- 
tially to the roots of the tasteless mass. In forming plantations near 
a house, the best skill may be displayed by rendering such as are 

G 



42 PLANTING. 

necessary, objects of ornament ; or, when it is requisite to obscure 
a portion of the boundary, or any offensive object, trees with a pic- 
turesque irregularity of outHne are best to be adopted, since the real 
intention will be concealed. 

It is bad taste to plant in a form similar to the object intended to be 
hidden. It is also desirable to vary the forms of plantations, as they 
recede or advance ; by this the most pleasing effects may be pro- 
duced. The principles of perspective will here be as applicable as in 
drawing, by which single trees and groups may be so disposed as 
to assist in giving an appearance of extent : here also the colours 
of the foliage are to be particularly attended to, and arranged so 
as to harmonize and to aid the assumed increase of extent ; the 
effect which may be thus produced is admirable, and may be con- 
sidered one of the triumphs of the art of Landscape Gardening. 

The practice of inclosing grounds with thick masses of plantations 
should be avoided ; because, in a decided manner, they define that 
which should be imaginary ; and parts are made to project which 
ought to recede. Where thick plantations and broad masses of 
shade exist in the distance, they mar the effect of beautiful land- 
scape, encroach upon the limits of the ground, and evidently betray 
how far the hand of art has been directed. No true admirer of land- 
scape scenery will admit, that surrounding the grounds with a belt, 
or thick plantation, which every where marks the termination of 
property, can be reconcileable with good taste. It is nevertheless 



PLANTING. 43 

admitted, that in some situations such plantations are essential 
to particular effects, and that parts may be made to produce the 
pleasing effects of a vista, and increase the variety of outline. 
Many errors have been committed by persons conceiving the true 
art of Landscape Gardening to consist in curved walks and similarly- 
formed plantations, v^^hich, at a short distance, blend into such regular 
and formal shapes as to appear as if they were clipped ; but let 
it not be conceived for a moment that such forms can have any claim 
to the picturesque. The Painter and the Landscape Gardener, in 
their productions, have the same motive — to gratify the eye of taste ; 
the forms produced by clumps and belts should therefore be re- 
jected, as they afford little or no variety in their outline, and produce 
a formal and confined effect, at variance from nature. Shenstone 
fully supports the position, where he says, " I think the Landscape 
Painter is the Gardener's best designer." Plate 6 exhibits the mode 
of planting or clearing out, so as to produce the sinuosities and 
irregularities of nature. 

In forming plantations near the house, either to hide the offices 
or for ornamental groups, there should always be dispersed among 
them a great portion of evergreen shrubs, to preserve a lively and 
interesting appearance as well in winter as in summer. 

There are numerous evergreen and deciduous flowering shrubs, 
as well as ornamental herbaceous plants, that appear to great ad- 
vantage when planted in small clusters ; in the disposal of which, it 

g2 



44 PLANTING. 

is necessary to be acquainted with their respective properties, their 
height of growth, and the colour of their leaves and flowers, in 
order to produce a pleasing contrast : such plants may be selected 
for particular situations as will bloom in succession, or at any required 
period ; which is frecjuently desirable, when the villa is only occa- 
sionally visited by the proprietor. 

Although green turf is very pleasing and ornamental upon a lawn, 
still a large surface requires trees, decorative flowering shrubs, and 
plants, to relieve the monotony of its appearance, and render the 
scene more pleasing and interesting : care must be taken to leave 
uncovered a sufiicient portion of lawn or turf, as shall admit a free 
circulation of air, and breadth of light to display the form and effect 
of the surrounding plantations. Alleys, leading to shady walks, 
should be formed between the trees and shrubs. Vistas, which guide 
the eye to artificial objects or to distant beauties, should be particu- 
larly attended to. There are numerous ornamental trees and shrubs, 
which planted singly enhance the beauty of the pleasure-ground, 
w^hen tastefully disposed. The following are a few which are well 
adapted to this purpose : — 

TREES. 

Cupressus disticha, Salisburia adlantlfolia, 

Chinensis, Gleditschia horrida. 

Magnolia acuminata, Arbutus unedo, 

tripetala, andrachne, 

Quercus Ilex, !j Standard tree roses, 



PLANTING. 



45 



Standard Cytisus purpureus, 

supinus, 

argentius, 

Koelreuteria paniculata, 
Liriodendron tulipefera, 
Sophora Japonica, 
Bignonia Catalpa, 
Ailanthus glandulosa, 
Quercus coccifera. 



Zizyphus paliurus, 
Laurus sassafras, 
Plnus Cedrus, 

pinea, 

strobus, 



Juniperus Suecica, 
Halesia tetraptera, 
Ulmus crispa. 



SHRUBS. 



Magnolia glauca, 

cordata, 

Amorpha fruticosa, 
Paeonia arborea, 

humea, 

papaveracea, 

Kalmia latifolia, 
Rhododendron Catawbiense, 



Yucca filimentosa, 

gloriosa, 

Ligu strum lucldum, 
Juniperus Sabina, 
Chionanthus Virginicus, 
Stewartia malacodendron, 
Virgila lutea. 



The flower-garden will contain many choice and tender species 
of.flowers which must be sheltered by plantations on the North 
and North-east sides, from which points the most destructive winds 
proceed. No part of the flower-garden should be exposed, — not even 
to the pleasure-grounds ; it offers in itself sufficient to contemplate 
and to admire, and its character is best preserved and associated with 
retirement. The plantations, for this purpose, should be composed 
of neat and ornamental shrubs, a great proportion of which should be 
evergreens. 



46 PLANTING. 

Upon the arrangement of plants in the flower-garden a diversity of 
taste exists. The connoisseur Florist, who studies only varieties of 
particular species of pink, carnation, polyanthus, auricula, &c., prefers 
having whole beds of each of these flowers ; he is anxious for the 
number of varieties, and most ardently solicitous for those which 
are rare. The Botanist, in his scientific pursuits, looks not for an 
unprecedented variety of colours, nor particular construction of forms, 
but arranges them in classes; and prizes a new species, although 
possessing no beauty, to the gayest flower in the garden : while the 
General Observer prefers a judicious arrangement of beautiful flowers ; 
his pleasure is in admiring the harmony, the variety, and the splen- 
dour of the blooms. 

The disposal of plants in the beds of a flower-garden must, there- 
fore, depend on the taste of the proprietor. Where there is no 
particular inclination to study plants scientifically, but a flower-gar- 
den is required for recreation and amusement, the object must be 
to produce a pleasing variety throughout the season. Beds may be 
allotted to a general mixture of flowers, or to any particular species 
of choice or rare plants. Where there is an extensive collection 
of plants, flowers in pots may be reserved for adorning some beds, 
by a process denominated plunging, to secure a continual succession 
of variety and bloom. This arrangement, if judiciously conducted, is 
best calculated to give general satisfaction, as it may afford attractions 
for the Botanist, the Florist, and the General Observer. The plants 
for beds should consist of the handsomest flowering shrubs, the most 



PLANTING. 47 

ornamental herbaceous plants and bulbous roots, of which there are 
a great variety applicable to this purpose ; some of the flowering 
annuals will also add to the splendour of the scene. 

The beauty of the flower-garden, in the summer season, may be 
heightened by planting in beds some of the most freely flowering 
young and healthy green-house plants. Where there is an extent 
of green-house, a sufiicient quantity of plants should be grown 
annually for this purpose, and should be sunk in the beds about 
the middle or end of May. The following are among the beautiful 
of this species : — 



Anagallis grandiflora, 

monelli, 

Heliotropium grandiflonim, 
Fuschia coccinea. 
Lobelia erinus, 
unidentata, 



Hememeris urticifolia, 
Alstromeria peregrina, 
Bouvardia triphylla, 
Geraniums of sorts, 
Lychnis coronata, 
Lynum trigynum. 



Planting, with a reference to park scenery, must depend in a great 
measure on the nature and contour of the surface. Where there is 
a variety of convex and concave, of hill and dale, fine effects may 
be produced, by judiciously planting the hills and leaving open 
the valleys for more pleasing contrasts ; but this must be regulated 
by a judicious and refined taste : no formal group, perched upon the 
top of a hill, nor masses that might give the appearance of a wilder- 
ness, should be seen ; a flowing line, united with a lightness of effect, 
should be preserved throughout. 



48 PLANTING. 

Planting for park scenery within view from the pleasure-ground, 
should have ornament for its principal motive ; the formal and in- 
congruous avenue, the massive clump, having no kindred association 
with the beauties of nature, are, therefore, altogether to be rejected ; 
but where a revered relic of ancient times exists in a stately avenue, 
such should be respected, and not be destroyed. To alter the ap- 
pearance of an avenue will require years of growth ; and the cutting 
away part, to alter the effect, has rarely been attended with the de- 
sired success ; it has lost its wonted grandeur, remained a mutilated 
avenue, and the chasms have been viewed with sad regret. The 
disposal of trees in a park, either singly or in groups, should be 
regulated by the views from the principal apartments of the house, 
so as to avoid obstructing any desirable scenery. A few trees may, 
consistently with beauty, be dispersed singly ; but where they are 
grouped, they should present no regular form, nor be crowded into 
masses : however they be planted, they should partake of what is 
considered rural beauty and artless simplicity, which constitute the 
most lovely scenes of nature. In parks or shrubberies, it is desirable 
to plant only such trees and shrubs as are intended to remain, and 
never with a view to thin them out afterwards ; each plant should be 
so placed, as to show its form and to agree with the general effect. 

The method of planting adopted by the late Mr. Repton has been 
followed with great success. Trees of considerable growth, even of 
the height of from twenty to thirty feet, may be removed with safety 



PLANTING. 49 

for the purpose of exhibiting the desired effect, or for obscuring at 
once some disagreeable object. 

Where a large plantation is required as a screen or shelter, it may 
then be advisable to plant thicker than would be otherwise required. 
Neither the bill-hook nor the shears should be permitted among 
ornamental trees and shrubs ; all superfluous branches should be 
removed while of the size that a pruning knife is sufficient to 
separate them from the tree. 

Mr. Price has, in an ingenious manner, reprobated the practice of 
mixing indiscriminately a great variety of foliage, without having in 
view its effect ; he says, " Variety, of which the true end is to re- 
lieve the eye, not to perplex it, does not consist in the diversity of 
separate objects, but in the diversity of their effects when com- 
bined in a difference of composition and character. Many think, 
however, they have obtained that great object when they have 
exhibited in one body all the hard names of the Linnaean system ; 
but when as many plants as can be well got together, are exhi- 
bited in every shrubbery, or in every plantation, the result is a 
sameness of a different kind, but not less truly a sameness, than 
would arise from there being no diversity at all ; for there is no 
having variety of character without a certain distinctness — without 
certain marked features on which the eye can dwell." On the 
modern style of forming landscape scenery. Pope has given prin- 
ciples that may ever be acted upon: "To study natural beau- 

H 



50 



PLANTING. 



ties ; to conceal defects ; and never to sacrifice common sense to 
pageantry." 

The forming of woods, or the alteration of their appearance 
in the distance, in some situations, is of considerable importance in 
producing a picturesque effect. In this department, when a wood 
is to be formed, it is judicious to select such trees as will become 
profitable to the proprietor, as well as improve the scenery of the 
villa ; either are powerful inducements to planting of waste lands : 
such plantations should be composed of trees according to the nature 
of the soil. Larch and spruce fir will be found to thrive in almost 
any soil, and are of very quick growth ; where oak can be intermixed, 
both effect and value will be augmented. Dr. Hunter observes in his 
Evelyn's *' Sylva," that " The oak, the pride and glory of the forest, 
demands our first attention." Of the genus Quercus there are about 
thirty different species, many of which have numerous varieties ; such 
only as relate to ornamental scenery are here noticed. The following 
are best adapted for parks : — 



Quercus robur, common oak, 

ilex, evergreen oak, 

suber, cork-barked oak, 

— alba, white oak. 



Quercus cerris, Turkey oak, 

vars. Luicomb and 

Fulham oaks. 



The Quercus robur, or common oak, is well known to attain to a 
great size, but it is slow in growth : in woods it rises to a very con- 
siderable height; but singly it is rather a spreading tree, sending 



PLANTING. 



51 



immense branches horizontally, which divide and subdivide exceed- 
ingly. Mason has given a very beautiful description of such a 
tree : — 

" Behold yon oak, 
How stern he frowns ! and his broad brown arm 
Chills the pale plain beneath." 

The oak is confessedly the most accommodating of all the pro- 
ductions of the forest ; it combines happily with rustic scenery, adds 
grandeur to the ruined tower or Gothic arch, and seems appropriately 
to harmonize with the lowly pastoral or the lofty sublime. 

Quercus ilex, or the evergreen oak, is a very fine species ; it retains 
its leaves throughout the winter. In the South of Europe it attains 
to a great size : many fine specimens of it exist in this country, and 
it has of late years been much cultivated in parks; being both 
hardy and ornamental. 

Quercus suber, or the cork-tree, is also an evergreen ; the use of 
its bark is well known in this country : its appearance is more slender 
than the common oak, and its form more spiral. 

Quercus alba, or the white oak, is a very fine growing tree, and 
is likely to be much cultivated in this country; principally on account 
of its timber, which is in great repute. 

Quercus cerris, or the Turkey oak, is an evergreen, grows quick, 
and is very ornamental. A very fine variety, called the Luicomb 
oak, has been raised from the seed by Mr. Luicomb, from whom it 

h2 



52 PLANTING. 

derives its name : it does not seed so freely as most other oaks, but 
may be increased by grafting, and becomes excellent timber. There 
is another variety, supposed to have been raised from the seed of the 
quercus cerris, which is perhaps more worthy of notice, as it possesses 
all the qualities of the former, and is propagated more easily, as it 
seeds in abundance : the oldest, and perhaps the original plant of 
this variety, is in the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Co. at Fulham, 
whence it takes the name of the Fulham oak : its form and appear- 
ance are more massy and graceful than the Luicomb ; it spreads with 
all the majesty of the common oak, is more compact, and, from its 
general grandeur, is unquestionably a very desirable and ornamental 
tree. 

Of the species of elms suited to the purposes of Landscape Gar- 
dening, are — 

Ulmus campestris, the common elm. 

montana, the broad-leaved elm, or Wych hasel. 

Ulmus campestris, or the common elm, is a native of various coun- 
tries of Europe ; it grows as an indigenous plant in many parts of 
England. Mr. Gilpin, in his " Forest Scenery," has well described its 
beauties : he says, " The elm naturally grows upright, and, when it 
meets with a soil it loves, rises higher than the generality of trees; 
and after it has assumed the dignity and hoary roughness of age, 
though properly speaking it is not a forester, few of its forest 



PLANTING. 53 

brethren excel it in grandeur and beauty. The character of the elm, 
in its skeleton, partakes much of the oak, — so much, that when it 
is rough and old, it may at a distance be taken for an oak. In full 
foliage, its character is more clearly marked ; and no tree is better 
adapted to receive grand masses of light : its leaves are small, which 
gives it a natural Hghtness, and it is in general very picturesque." 
The timber of this tree is in some instances serviceable, but is 
not valuable. 

JJlmus montana, or the Wych hasel, is found in shady lanes and 
the outskirts of woods, in most parts of England, and seems clearly to 
be indigenous : its habit of growth is more loose and straggling than 
the common elm, which gives it a light, broken, and pleasing outline, 
and consequently better suited to the picturesque. 

Fagus syhatica, or the common beech, as an ornamental tree, de- 
serves a place in the foreground ; it possesses a stately trunk, a glossy 
foliage, and gracefully-spreading pendulous boughs, and has a fine and 
noble effect when standing singly in a park or in ornamental grounds : 
it throws out its branches gracefully, and feathers almost to the 
ground. In woods and groves it grows clear of branches to a great 
height. It is indigenous to several countries of Europe. The wood 
of the beech is not very valuable, although useful for a variety 
of purposes. 

Castanea sativa, or the common chestnut, grows to a great size, 
with a noble and picturesque bole, and spreads its branches finely 



54 PLANTING. 

on every side where it has room ; if planted close, it will shoot up 
straight to a considerable height, and is very grand. Its loose and 
straggling effect is pleasing and picturesque. 

Fraxinus excelsior, or the common ash, is objectionable on arable 
lands, as it extends its branches and roots widely, with very destruc- 
tive properties ; its roots impoverish and exhaust the soil, and the 
drip from its branches is pernicious to vegetation : it is also objec- 
tionable as an ornamental tree ; although of handsome growth, its 
leaves are always the latest in appearing, and they fall among the 
earliest in the autumn. It may be introduced into plantations of 
extensive parks and woods : it adapts itself to any soil, and its tim- 
ber is always in demand. 

JEsculiis hippocastanum, or the common horse-chestnut, is distin- 
guished for its grandeur and ornamental foliage, and, when in flower, 
no tree possesses so much beauty; the extremities of its branches be- 
ing terminated by fine spikes of flowers, so numerous that the tree 
is covered with the most elegant bloom: the large digitate leaves have 
a noble appearance, and the round full form of the head makes it 
a desirable tree in plantations, especially as its growth is rapid ; and 
it is a tree well adapted to be placed alone, although it is somewhat 
formal. The timber is of little value. 

Juglans regia, or the common walnut, is a handsome as well as 
a profitable tree, and may well be introduced for ornament : it 
is a large and lofty tree, with strong spreading boughs, and of 



PLANTING. 55 

majestic appearance. It grows very fast, and its timber is valu- 
able. 

Acer campestris, or the common maple, never attains to a very 
large size, but is well worthy a place in ornamental plantations : its 
foliage is pleasing, and forms, among other trees, a good variety. 

Acer pseudo-plantanus, or the great maple or sycamore, is large 
and of quick growth, and was formerly much planted ; but has been 
superseded by more ornamental trees. It may be used for shelter, 
and mixes well in large plantations. 

Tilia Europea, or the European lime, is a handsome tree, having a 
taper straight trunk, with its branches forming a beautiful cone ; the 
foliage also is smooth and elegant. It makes a fine detached object 
in parks and open lawns. 

The poplar is a tree seldom admitted into rural scenery : its 
stiff upright form prevents its adaptation to purposes of ornament ; 
although it may sometimes be introduced among other trees for 
variety, and in that manner it is at times seen in landscapes to good 
effect. Mr. Gilpin has thought some of the poplars picturesque. 
The following are sometimes grown, though they are not recom- 
mended as ornamental : — 

Populus alba, the white poplar, or Abele tree, 
nigra, the black poplar, 

balsamifera, the common Tacamahaca poplar, 

dilata, the Lombardy or Po poplar. 



56 PLANTING 

Betiila alba, or the common birch tree, is worthy of a place in 
ornamental plantations. Mr. Gilpin says of it, that *' The stem 
being straight, the bark smooth and white, and the foliage neat, the 
birch has a picturesque appearance, when properly placed, in orna- 
mental plantations ; either in the openings here and there, to show 
the foliage and hanging down of the twigs, or within, to display its 
silvery bark through the gloom." 

Of the numerous tribe of willows there are none, with the ex- 
ception of Salii' Babijlonica, or the weeping willow, that can come 
under consideration. This species may be introduced with good 
effect along the banks of a winding river ; its long slender pendulous 
branches give it a peculiar character, and render it in such situations 
a beautiful object ; it is also handsome as a single tree, in many 
situations. 

Finns, or fir-tree, of which there are about thirty species, are all 
worthy of cultivation. A fine collection of this genus is to be seen 
at Dropmore, the seat of Lord Granville, where there is a portion 
of ground allotted for the purpose, called the Pinery : in this spot 
are collected most of the species known in this country. 

It would not be doing justice to many of the fine genera of 
plants already noticed, to enter fully into a detail of all the species of 
the pine; it is therefore proposed to notice such only as are best 
known and cultivated, either for ornament or utility. 



PLANTING. 



57 



Pinus cedrus, cedar of Lebanon, Pinus picea, silver fir, 

pinea, stone pine, balsamea, balm of Gilead fir, 

strobus, Weymouth pine, — — Canadensis, hemlock spruce, 

larix, common white larch, abies, Norway spruce. 

The Cedar of Lebanon is not onlj of the most antient renown, but 
may justly be termed the noblest of the tribe ; the majesty of its form 
adds dignity to the scene, wherever it is introduced. No tree is 
better adapted to the climate of this country ; the inclemency of the 
coldest winter does not affect it. 

With respect to the other species of firs above-mentioned, it would 
be needless to consider them separately; their form and habit of 
growth being similar, it may be sufficient to observe that they are 
all worthy of being classed among the ornamental trees. They 
should not be planted singly, but intermixed with other trees. 

Of the Plane, Platmus, there are two species : — 

Platinus Orientalis, the Oriental plane, 
— Occidentalis, the American plane. 

Both are cultivated in this country : they are highly decorative ; the 
skeleton is peculiarly elegant, and the tree well worthy of notice. 
Mr. Marshall says of the plane, that " it is particularly refreshing to 
the eye, and truly ornamental, the bright colour giving variety to 
groves and masses of wood ; in single trees or in groups they are 
equally elegant." The lower branches shoot horizontally, and afford 
in summer a delightful shade. 

I 



58 



PLANTING. 



Taxiis haccata, or the common yew, has but an indifferent claim to 
notice ; its very dark fohage produces a sombre appearance, which is 
increased by its thick growth. It possesses httle either of grace 
or elegance ; its dark-coloured massive growth answers very well for 
filling up a plantation, as a screen, or for a thick evergreen fence. 

This brief sketch of the leading characters of trees, evergreen and 
deciduous shrubs, suited to the purposes of decoration in the grounds 
of a villa, is perhaps all that may be considered necessary ; there only 
remains a hope that it may be useful, and promote a taste for orna- 
menting grounds, with an adherence to Nature, the great instructor 
in the principles of Landscape Gardening. 

" To build, to plant, whatever you intend, 
To rear the column, or the arch to bend, 
To swell the terrace, or to sink the grot ; 
In all, let Nature never be forgot : 
But treat the goddess like a modest fair, 
Nor over-dress, nor leave her wholly bare ; 
Let not each beauty ev'ry where be spied, 
Where half the skill is decently to hide. 
He gains all points who pleasingly confounds, 
Surprises, varies, and conceals the bounds." 

Pope. 



ESSAY V. 



WATER. 



Water well situated eminently contributes to improve and embel- 
lish the scenery of a domain. If it be a lake in mid-distance, it can 
be exhibited to great advantage by a variety of methods, and assisted 
in its form and dimensions by judicious planting upon the grounds of 
the villa. If it be a river, nature has generally given to it forms 
that are deeply interesting; still the associating objects may give 
to those beauties an additional charm. The peculiar effect of certain 
varieties of foliage breaking tenderly upon the edge, or projecting 
boldly on the mass, are effects with which every eye is familiar. The 
prospect of a sheet of water, seen through a vista, ever claims atten- 
tion ; but if with these there be an undulating surface of ground, 



60 WATER. 

or a temple placed on a gently rising knoll, sustained by appro- 
priate foliage, the scene is rendered particularly beautiful. 

If water be, happily, within the grounds of a villa, it may be ren- 
dered ornamental in an eminent degree ; and among the effects to be 
produced may be mentioned the cascade, the fountain, the pool, the 
murmuring brook, and the winding stream : these must be regulated 
by the quantity of water, and the nature of the ground through 
which it runs. 

While speaking of the beauty which water may produce on a 
domain, it must be admitted that a superabundance is frequently 
detrimental ; also where grounds are low, and liable to occasional 
inundation, or interspersed with fens or bogs : in such places, the im- 
prover's skill is more particularly required ; for he must, by removing 
the objectionable quantity, render the grounds productive and pic- 
turesque. The superfluous water may be drawn togetlier into the 
form of a lake ; or, if draining be practicable, a gently running 
stream may be effected. It frequently occurs, where the drainings 
of neighbouring lands lead to one reservoir, there is a great deposit 
of clay and mud, and the spot becomes overgrown with weeds, even- 
tually producing stagnation, rendering the scene disagreeable, and 
the neighbourhood unhealthy : these impurities of animal and vege- 
table matter will be entirely removed, and this inconvenience in every 
respect obviated, where a running stream can be effected. 



WATER. 61 

Where the health and comfort of individuals are concerned, 
expense should not be a consideration in obtaining the object de- 
sired ; machinery, or an action produced by the wind as on a mill, 
might be resorted to for raising the water, and its final discharge 
would depend on situation with respect to neighbouring channels 
communicating with a river. 

The delightful appearance of water depends particularly on the for- 
mation of the banks. A serpentine direction is most pleasing : the 
line of the shore may be broken by bold projections, or by islands, 
formed as circumstances may require ; but in these ornaments much 
of their effect will depend on form and position, and they should 
never appear centrically situated. The trees and shrubs on the 
banks should be arranged so as to have a light and airy appearance ; 
any heavy form placed upon water will not accord with the general 
effect such a scene is calculated to produce. Where a piece of 
water is upon a small scale, and a fall can be constructed, nothing 
adds more to the beauty of the scenery. Accidental lights and 
shades are conducive to the pleasure derived from the view of tran- 
quil water, independent of its beauteous reflections : as upon an 
extended lake, where the distance is light and open with occa- 
sional breaks, and the intermediate parts deep-toned, increasing in 
depth of shade as they advance, the prospect is rich and de- 
lightful. 



62 WATER. 

The extent of the reflecting surface should be in proportion to 
the extent of the grounds : if there be too great a surface of water, 
and the distance be flat, a part of the distant bank may be raised 
and planted, which will have the eflect of bringing the objects nearer; 
and in that proportion lessen the expanse of the water. If a piece 
of water be shut in by banks, and abridged in its requisite appear- 
ance ; by levelling the distance, it will seem extended, and the termi- 
nation will become less evident. The introduction of the view of 
a promontory on some part of the shore will break too great an 
expanse of water; and the appearance of the water again beyond, 
will convey an idea of a river in continuation : thus an infinite and 
pleasing variety may be produced, by breaking the dull monotony of 
a straight line on the edge of water. 

In directing the course of a river, its turnings should be made 
easy and natural — neither too numerous nor sudden ; it should wind 
through a vale, and, if any part be uninteresting, an island or some 
other object calculated to break the uniformity, and give variety to 
the scene, should be introduced. Where the course of a river 
is through a park, it may with advantage be conducted amidst a 
portion of the wooded scenery ; since it is desirable to have the 
water sometimes concealed, and then again appear where it will 
be viewed with renewed pleasure. The banks are next to be con- 
sidered ; which may be varied; occasionally having some parts level. 



WATER. 63 

SO as to throw open to the view an expanse of water, while other 
parts may be raised for the purpose of its concealment. 

A piece of running water, wholly exposed, affords little interest ; 
but viewed with accompanying embellishments, it produces one of 
the grandest ornaments which the hand of a master can possibly 
effect on the most extensive domain. Who ever beheld the grand 
and powerful effect of water at Blenheim, without emotions of sur- 
prise and admiration ? 

A rivulet is always an object imparting pleasure in a sequestered 
situation, but it does not bear sufficient importance to become 
a conspicuous object in rural scenes ; and yet the purling stream 
which encircled the grounds of Shenstone's villa at the Leasowes 
was ever an object of delight and importance : in various parts it 
produced effects both pleasing and interesting ; at times seen, and not 
heard — again the pleasing murmurs were heard, when the cause was 
not seen. Thus, a rill murmuring through a wood seems to implore 
the observer to contemplate its solitary course, while its glittering 
ripple enlivens and decorates the scene. 

Perhaps the most striking effect water is capable of producing is 
in a cascade, or a natural water-fall. (Plate 5.) The mind receives 
pleasing impressions of wonder and delight, while witnessing the 
liquid element descending from on high in various sheets, which 
sparkle with a diamond lustre as they fall — the cloudy spray reflect- 



64 WATER. 

ing the soft and blended colours of the rainbow ; then dashing with 
furious irregularity over bold projections and stupendous rocks. 
Such a scene as this must be presented principally by nature ; but 
much may be done artifically to add to its grandeur : where such 
an object exists, the character of the sublime and picturesque in 
the surrounding scene must be maintained. Here masses of luxu- 
riant trees surround the eminence : some projecting over the pre- 
cipice, some bending midway as if by magic power upheld; others 
dip their pendent foliage in the foam below ; and the stately oak, 
in wild magnificence, curves its bold roots amid the rocks, and 
stretching its huge arms completes this scene of grandeur and sub- 
limity, 

" While from aloft the bursting torrents flow, 
As deep recoiling surges foam below ; 
Prone o'er the rocks the whitening sheet descends. 
And viewless Echo's ear astonish'd rends." 



ESSAY VL 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 



In planning rural ornaments, their situation is to be considered, 
as well as their formation, their convenience, and appearance. 

Here will occur the necessity of employing persons conversant 
with the practice of arranging and disposing such ornaments with 
regard to picturesque scenery. It has happened, after these or- 
naments have been completed at a great expense, on taking dif- 
ferent views of them, and from them, that it has been discovered 
the effect might have been considerably improved, had they been 
erected upon some other parts of the grounds, or perhaps only a 
few yards from the spots adopted ; and that the character and style 
were not in unison with the surrounding scenery. 

K 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 

To guard against this, and, in the first instance, to obtain some 
idea of the effect and form of an intended building, it will be ad- 
visable to erect poles, or some rough structure, to be covered with 
matting, or other material, upon the site, in the form and size of the 
proposed structure ; by observing which from various points or 
stations, it may be ascertained whether the form, the height, and the 
magnitude, accord with the surrounding scenery and if it be well situ- 
ated with regard to its effect from more distant parts of the grounds ; 
for at times these ornaments have a good effect upon a close in- 
spection, but appear inharmonious when viewed from a distance: 
such a situation should be chosen as shall embrace as many views as 
possible ; and it is desirable that such embellishment should be 
seen from different parts of the villa. The paramount design of these 
buildings is to augment the interest and character of the scenery ; 
therefore, too much attention cannot be bestowed upon a proper 
style and situation. (Plate 4.) It has been said, that the beauties 
of objects, whether natural, relative, or artificial, are conveyed to 
the senses by the different qualities of matter, form, sound, colour, 
or motion ; but form is the grand characteristic of matter, and 
acts powerfully on the organ of sight in eliciting approbation. 

In addition to the form of buildings for ornamented grounds, 
another essential is particularly to be attended to — utility ; and a 
leading object for the artist to attain, is the union of the ornamental 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 67 

with tlie useful : and when this is accomplished, the success is com- 
plete. The ornamenting of grounds with buildings prevailed among 
the ancients, and consisted principally of temples, terraces, statues, 
fountains, &c., constructed of marble, stone, and reticulated brick- 
work; and were generally of a description that could not at all 
times assimilate with rural elegance. 

Rural scenery, in the grounds of a country residence, is now 
made to accord with the simple, or the magnificent scenes, which 
nature offers to the view ; and in all the ornaments introduced, there 
must be an agreement with those respective scenes, at all times 
preserving the character of the useful and the elegant. 

Part of the villa may be shown from a summer-house with good 
effect ; particularly if it be seen at a moderate distance and through 
trees, which by the opposition of colour will improve the glance at 
the house, and also excite pleasing ideas of home, comfort, and the 
charms of rural elegance. Vases and statues, tastefully disposed 
about the pleasure-grounds, have a pleasing effect ; and, in extensive 
shrubberies, the arrangement of statues and busts, if numerous, 
should be directed by classical taste, that they may be disposed 
with propriety and truth : no greater absurdity can appear, than 
such decorations indiscriminately mixed, or without literary order. 
" Classical associations," Stewart observes, " have added immensely 
to our natural resources ; but at the same time have warped our 

K 2 



68 RURAL ORNAMENTS. 

taste in various instances ;" acquiring, as Alison adds, " a superiority 
over the more permanent principles of beauty, and determining, 
for a time, the taste of nations." In the disposal of this description 
of ornament, there should appear no desire to exhibit an osten- 
tatious display; and where minute inspection may be required, 
the means of affording it should be furnished ; but generally a 
glimpse at a few of these objects through trees, from some parts 
of the house, will be sufficient to relieve and improve the appear- 
ance of the grounds ; but in general, busts will be better disposed 
in the walks, and amongst thick shrubberies. 

The effect of a shady walk may be considerably heightened by 
the introduction of a rustic seat, to which the observer will be in- 
sensibly drawn ; and, after having enjoyed the gay scenes of the 
flower-garden, will be no less charmed with the sombre appearance 
of this retreat. There is a charm peculiar to shady retirement, after 
having enjoyed sunny scenes of elegance and beauty ; and to a con- 
templative or studious mind these sequestered spots are particularly 
interesting. Among the embellishments of a villa, a temple, a 
fishing-house, or a boat-house, on the margin of the lake, may be 
rendered attractive ; especially if seen to advantage from distant 
parts of the grounds : in which case, they must partake of the cha- 
racter of the scene with which they are to harmonize. If the 
banks of the lake should approach each other so as consistently to 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 69 

admit of a bridge, which could be seen to advantage from the 
house, so many pleasing sensations are connected with such an 
object, that it should be constructed ; but with due regard to cha- 
racter. 

Rock-work may be introduced into gardens, however small or 
extensive ; but it should be confined to the picturesque part of them, 
or be made to add to the effect of the wildest scenes of nature. 
When relics of antiquity are introduced, they should be constructed 
with the greatest judgment, so as to bear a character of truth ; any 
attempt at deception, which a glance may discover, cannot be viewed 
either with curiosity or pleasure. These erections should appear 
to have some historical connexion. Ruins of ancient grandeur, if 
constructed so as to be in accordance with their situations, become 
objects of great importance to the grounds of an extensive domain, 
as they afford subjects for contemplation ; and the scenery which 
surrounds them should conspire to present a whole consistent with 
taste. A painting gives more delight by expressing a fine imagi- 
nation, than by the splendour of its execution or general effect ; 
where the mind is gratified, the eye is delighted. 

A just taste for rural scenes is required to dispose rock-work to 
advantage : pleasing, interesting, or picturesque objects, may be 
formed upon shaded banks and precipices, especially where water, 
or a cascade, can be introduced. 



70 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 



A list of the most ornamental shrubs and herbaceous plants, 
suited to the display among rock-work may be found serviceable 
to those who admire such interesting ornaments. The following may 
be recommended as appropriate : — 



SHRUBS. 



Juniperus prostrata, 

■ Sabina, 

Pyrus Japonica, 
Daphne cneorum, 
Arbutus uva ursi, 
Vaccinium Vitis Idoea, 
Rubus arcticus, 
Ulex nanus, 
Cistus helianthemum, 
Cneorum tricoccum, 
Linnaea borealis, 
Gaultheria procumbens, 



Poly gala Chaema-buxus. 
Vinca minor, 
Cytisus purpureus, 
Erica tetralix, 

vagans, 

ciliaris, 

caerulea, 

MitcheUa repens, 
Rhododendron Caucasicum, 

chamae cistus, 

Azalia procumbens, 
Epigea repens. 



HERBAGE 

Tussilago odorata, 
Alyssum deltoides, 
Eumaria cava, 

eximia, 

Erinus Alpinus, 
Anemone Appenina, 

nemorosa, 

Pulmonaria divaricata, 
Lepidium Alpinum, 



US PLANTS. 

Gentiana pneumananthe, 

verna, 

Asperula odorata, 
Erodium chamaedroides, 

Romanum, 

Saxifraga oppositifolia, 

petraea, 

pilosa, 

granulate. 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 



71 



Saxifraga androsace, 

stellaris, 

sarmentosa, 

Antirrhinum A)pinum, 

cymbellaria, 

Soldanella Alpina, 
Draba aizoides, 

hirta, 

incana, 

Phlox setacea, 

i subulata, 

stolonifera, 

Lychnis Alpina, 
Oxalis acetosella, 

. violacea, 

Hippocrepis comosa, 

Chrysosplenium alternifolium, 

oppositifolium, 

Epimedium Alpinum, 

Saponaria ocymoides, 

Thalictrum Alpinum, 

Convallaria bifolia, 

Geum montanum, 

repens, 

Potentilla alba, 

fragarioides, 

Hymenophyllum Tunbridgense, 

Glaux marltima, 

Orobus varius, 

Androsace carnea, 

• chamaejasme, 

Aphyllanthes Montpeliensis, 



Cheiranthus Alpinus, 
Arenaria saxatillis, 
Galium Graecum, 
Dianthus Alpinus, 

pungens, 

procumbens, 

hyssopifolius, 

Rhodiola rosea, 
Houstonia caerulea, 
Pinguicula Alpina, 
Alchemilla pentiphylla, 
Alpina, 

CEnothera pumilla, 

casspitosa, 

— Missouriensis, 

Lithospermum purpureum-caervilevun, 

Convallaria majalis, 

Jasione montana, 

Gnaphelium arenarium, 

Dalibardia fragarioides, 

Swertia perennis, 

Asplenium adiantum nigrum, 

■ trichomanes, 

Stipa pinnata, 

Cynoglossum omphaloides, 

Sedum telepium, 

aizoon, 

rupestris, 

Artemisia glacialis, 

Ononis repens, 

Veronica Alpina, 

prostrata, 



72 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 



Scmpervivum montanum, 

globiferum, 

Campanula pumilla, 
hederacea, 



Thymus zygis, 
Achillea Alpina, 
Onoclea sensibilis, 
Trifolium Alpinum, 



Silene acauHs, 
Lotus corniculatus. 
Hieracium Alpinum, 
Gypsophylla prostrata, 
Epilobium Alpinum, 
Thymus Alpinus, 



Asclepias decumbens, 
Pachysandra procumbens. 
Convolvulus sepium, 
Hedysarum obscurum, 
Eriophorum Alpinum, 
Drosera rotundifolia. 



ochroleucum, 



serphyUum, 



There are instances, where pyramids of rock-work are to be seen 
in open parts of flower-gardens and pleasure-grounds, which, being 
executed without taste or connexion, appear Hke vmmeaning kimps ; 
while the same materials and labour, judiciously applied, would form 
interesting objects. The natural irregularity of rocks will reasonably 
lead the artist to the formation of irregular and picturesque ob- 
jects, and when such varied materials are employed to ornament plea- 
sure-grounds, it is unpardonable not to give all the picturesque effect 
they may be made to produce. The great diversity of striking 
forms which may be exhibited by these bold and varied materials, 
render them desirable in rude and picturesque scenery ; they are 
pleasing on the smallest scale, if arranged according to nature ; and 
where the grounds are of great extent, the grandest and most im- 
posing scenes of an imitative nature may be effected. 



I 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 73 

An irregular and winding path, leading down a precipice toward 
a cavern, having the appearance of antiquity in all the rudeness of 
decay, will form a striking object of the picturesque ; and if water 
can be added by natural or artificial means to such a spot, the effect 
will be considerably heightened. Here wild indigenous aquatic plants 
may be naturally disposed ; while the trickling of the water and the 
solemn gloom will conspire to give the scene a touch of the sublime. 
Grottoes are nearly allied to rock-work ; they are not frequently con- 
structed in pleasure-grounds in this country: although in some in- 
stances they may give pleasure from variety, and in some situations 
afford shelter and shade. The formal arrangement of delicate shells, 
interspersed with marine productions, however costly or rare, will not 
be found to accord with modern taste, as decorative to a villa : they 
belong to the age of incongruity in Landscape Gardening. 

Rustic summer-houses and garden-seats are pleasing and useful 
objects, particularly in extensive grounds : they serve as places of 
rest, and act as guides to the best points from which the beauties of 
the surrounding scenes are viewed to the greatest advantage. There 
should be no seat but were some pleasing object is in view— 

" There to relish calm delight, 
Verdant vales, and fountain bright. 
Trees that nod on sloping hills. 
Caves that echo tinkling rills." 

L 



74 RURAL ORNAMENTS 

The Style of these useful ornaments must depend on the situation 
in which they are placed : if among the rude scenes of neglected 
nature, or in romantic and recluse situations, a rustic seat or summer- 
house constructed of rough branches will be most suitable; but 
where the hand of art has been more scientifically employed, such 
ornaments may be introduced as will form appropriate accompa- 
niments, and appear in unison with the surrounding scenery. While 
the spectator rests, the rustic or the decorated seat gives opportunity 
for examining some natural or artificial beauty, which might not 
otherwise have received particular attention. These resting-places 
afford to kindred tastes an opportunity of pointing out to each other 
innumerable effects and combinations that else might have been un- 
noticed ; they are the points whence the highest gratification of the 
spectator is derived, and they contribute the most satisfactory reward 
to the Landscape Gardener. 

Passing from the house through the pleasure-grounds to the park, 
prospects on a more extensive scale open on the view, where should 
be displayed such embellishments as are suited to the grandeur of 
the scene. Those animals which occasionally appear in the park will 
assist in exciting the attention of the spectator ; scenes of animated 
nature never fail to please under these circumstances. Deer, cattle, 
sheep, hares, and fowls of various descriptions, enliven and decorate 
the park : these not only contribute to raise ideas of the extent of 
the place, but are necessary to complete a due portion of grandeur ; as 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 75 

pheasants and other bu*ds of splendid plumage add to the beauty 
of the pleasure-ground. The cawing of rooks, the screams of pea- 
cocks, the enlivening notes of the thrush, and the sweet melody of 
the nightingale, are desirable in their respective situations ; and these 
may be obtained by introducing the peculiar trees or shrubs in 
which those birds delight. 

The view of the farm, a distant village, the spire of a church, 
or an obelisk, become interesting in certain views : these will be 
sought for and turned to account by the judicious Landscape Gar- 
dener. Many artificial means, which cannot be here particularized, 
may be resorted to on various occasions for assisting the effect of 
nature. (Plate 6.) The keeper's house and the park lodges may 
be of a rustic character, which from many points may be rendered 
agreeably interesting. Where walks are constructed in the park, all 
pleasurable objects which appertain to rural scenes should be intro- 
duced ; they act on the eye like sparkling touches in a picture, which 
excite the imagination, and render it conducive to increased en- 
joyment. 

" Where, scattered wild, the Uly of the vale 
Its balmy essence breathes ; where cowslips hang 
The dewy head, where purple violets lurk, — 
With all the lowly children of the shade." 

If the boundaries of the domain be seen, they should vary in 
character: sometimes of stone or brick; but generally of wooden 

L 2 



70 RURAL ORNAMENTS. 

palings of the most rustic character, which, although less durable, 
being more picturesque, are preferable. Iron hurdles may sometimes 
be necessary to form part of the park boundaries, that the eye may 
embrace the distant views. It may be here noticed, that an invisiblt 
fence, between the pleasure-ground and the park, will occasionally 
add much interest to the general appearance of the scenery ; the 
ha-ha, or sunk fence, may be used in some parts, while other parts 
may be excluded by close plantations : light iron invisible fences are 
well adapted to the separation of grounds. The great improvements 
in the manufacture of iron-work have brought this elegant descrip- 
tion of fence much into use ; and of this material are formed elegant 
and useful ornamental basket-work for surrounding beds of flowers, 
or guards for trees; also trellis-work of various decorative descrip- 
tions for stages on which flowering plants may be placed, either to 
fill an accidental chasm, or to give additional splendour to particular 
parts of the pleasure-grounds. 

Farm-houses, if suitably constructed and ornamented, may cer- 
tainly be included within the decorations of an estate : they are ne- 
cessary appendages, and may justly be considered as forming an 
interesting part of the rural scenery. Where a farm is upon a small 
scale, and is retained in the hands of the owner for private cultiva- 
tion, the farm-house and buildings may join the park, and still be 
rendered agreeable objects of interest to the scenery. Where the 
neighbouring lands are held by tenants, it is not objectionable for 



RURAL ORNAMENTS. 77 

one or more farm-houses to be in view from parts of the park : while 
their appearance denotes utiHty, they can never become objection- 
able. Many farm-houses, with extensive unconnected outbuildings in 
the old style, do not accord well with park scenery ; but, as great 
improvements have recently taken place in the arrangement of these 
establishments, they may generally be considered an interesting and 
enlivening portion of distant scenery : they present a contrast to the 
cultivated and decorated scenes surrounding the villa; and will 
always be viewed with peculiar feelings of satisfaction, as the ha- 
bitations of one of the most valuable classes of a well-regulated 
society. 



ESSAY VII. 



DISTANT SCENERY. 



There are many particulars connected with the distant scenery 
which form part of the view from a villa, over which the Landscape 
Gardener has no immediate control ; yet such objects and parts as 
are beautiful should be rendered more conspicuous, while the scenery 
is surveyed from the house ; and if, in traversing the walks, portions 
of the distance on which the eye may be invited to repose do not 
become interesting objects, such may be obscured. 

On the most eligible spots the plantations may form vistas ; and if 
this be duly considered when the site of the building is selected, the 
better will be the accordance. Circumstances of importance fre- 
quently occur in making alterations, which require the felling of 
large trees : such circumstances deserve most serious consideration 



DISTANT SCENERY. 79 

before the axe is wielded, since an irreparable loss may be sustained ; 
nor should felHng ever be resorted to, unless when trees are too near 
the dwelling, when they obstruct some desirable view into the dis- 
tance, or when a superabundance renders it necessary : either of these 
cases may warrant the removal of timber trees ; but the operation of 
felling such stately tenants should not be carried into effect without 
much consideration, and the entire approbation of the proprietor. 

The union of the fore-ground with the distance, characteristically 
considered, produces great additional beauty; hills, distant woods, 
and mountains, present variously enriched lines which mark the 
boundary of vision. Where those forms partake of the broken or 
rough character, the fore-ground should assume the picturesque, by 
irregularity of surface and appropriate planting. Where the distant 
lines are blended into soft or flowing forms, the graceful slope or 
flowery lawn will best harmonize ; and, in either case, render the 
scene more desirable, as the principal view from the villa. 

Water is eminently a principal object in enlivening the effect of 
Landscape Scenery ; and whether it be seen winding along a distant 
vale, or foaming over a precipice, this element gives much brilliancy 
to the scene, and advantage should be taken of it on all possible 
occasions, to enliven and embellish the view. Plantations which have 
neither pleasing nor picturesque outlines, but stretch in dull uniform 
masses across the view with a smooth and level foliage, should be 



80 DISTANT SCENERY. 

broken by a mixture of trees of different species and growth ; or 
perhaps the hne may be opened and broken with increased effect, 
and a variety in form obtained, which shall produce a contrast of 
bright lights and deep shadows in the outline; this treatment of 
formal plantations will generally destroy offensive clumps and the 
belt-like appearance, which too frequently disfigure the face of a 
country. (See Plate 6.) Mr. Price says, " Clumps placed on sum- 
mits of hills alarm the picturesque traveller many miles off, and warn 
him of his approach to the enemy : the belt Hes more in ambuscade ; 
and the wretch who falls into it, and is obliged to walk the whole 
round in company with the improver, will be forced to allow, that 
a snake with its tail in its mouth is comparatively but a feeble em- 
blem of eternity." 

The belt has all the condemnable sameness and formality, without 
the redeeming grandeur of the avenue to which it has succeeded. 
In an avenue, similar objects are seen from beginning to end. In 
the belt, at intervals of twenty yards, groups of trees succeed each 
other throughout the insipid circle, without the least relief in variety. 
The contrast of masses with groups must not be too strong where 
grandeur is the character of the scene, for unity is essential to great- 
ness in this particular. If a wood be opened too much, it is no longer 
one object, but a confused collection of plantations. If the progress 
from one group to the other be gradual, then shapes and tints differ- 



DISTANT SCENERY. 81 

ing from each other will be produced on the same surface ; and each 
mass will occupy a considerable space, in agreement with the pic- 
turesque : a single tree, or a cluster of trees, on the edge of an ex- 
tensive wood, in size and colour is but a mere spot. To break 
uniformity in the appearance of a wood, the groups and masses must 
be large to produce any sensible variety. 

In arranging trees to produce an irregular outline, it is advisable to 
guard against formal repetition of shape or interval. Distant planta- 
tions should be, or at least appear to be, connected, forming ample 
and bold masses, in which character they partake of grandeur : but 
if divided and dispersed, they appear petite and unconnected ; unite 
them, and they form a bold and grand chain of natural and inte- 
resting beauty. In speaking of the effect of masses of plantations, 
and of their appearing to be connected, it is always with reference 
to such forms as possess a character in accordance with the scenery. 

It must be acknowledged, that from every point of view, on the 
grounds of an extensive domain, from which distant plantations may 
be seen, the character may not always be preserved ; but it is under 
such circumstances that the skill of the Landscape Gardener may 
be exercised with effect ; and where all cannot be obtained, the best 
will be selected. An infinite variety of circumstances and objects 
may be connected with the distant views, which become deeply in- 
teresting ; the hedge-rows, the pasture and arable lands, the humble 

M 



82 



DISTANT SCENERY. 



cottage with the smoke curhng amid the surrounding trees, while 
the village and its towering steeple on the border of the stream, 
with its lively reflections — the bridge, the mill, or the stately ruin, 
each offer beauties that may be heightened by a judicious appro- 
priation of the surrounding scenery, over or through which they 
may be seen from the residence ; and the selection of appropriate 
character in the breaks and foliage of trees to increase these beauties, 
is the province of the Landscape Gardener. 

" At length the finished garden to the view 
Its vistas opens, and its alleys green. 
Snatch 'd through the verdant maze, the hurried eye 
Distracted wanders : now the bowery walk 
Of covert close, where scarce a speck of day 
Falls on the lengthened gloom, protracted sweeps ; 
Now meets the bending sky; the river now 
Dimpling along, the breezy-rufiled lake, 
The forest darkening round, the glittering spire. 
The ethereal mountain, and the distant main.'" 



ESSAY VIII. 



ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 



The variety of effects and combinations of natural scenery, em- 
bracing the beautiful and picturesque, from the simple to the sublime, 
possess so many charms, that admiration and rapture are but feeble 
terms to express the gratification which the cultivated mind feels 
and acknowledges, while contemplating these delightful combina- 
tions of Nature's grandest productions. To minds so formed may 
be addressed the hope, that it will not be deemed presumption to 
assert that the art of Landscape Gardening could, by a judicious 
application of its powers, communicate a harmonizing charm, or give 
a unison of character rarely to be found in the promiscuous scenes 
of Nature. Undulated ground, water, trees, rocks, and buildings, 
are the essentials resorted to for this purpose : these can be so diver- 

M 2 



84 ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 

sified in composition, so varied in hue, form, character, and beauty, 
as to be almost infinite in their varieties of appHcation. If it were 
possible to exhibit those objects confusedly disposed or unharmoni- 
ously combined, and while they were viewed, the just appropriation of 
the objects were to take place, producing all the perfection of which 
they were capable, it would be a magical operation ; and the art ot 
combining scenic objects would be shown, the improved effect in 
composition rendered evident, and the application of the Art of 
Landscape Gardening conspicuously displayed to advantage. 

Who is insensible to the tasteful outline of the well-grouped 
plantations ; to finely shorn grass, having shrubs and trees tastefully 
disposed upon it ; to the walk gracefully winding through the grove 
to some sequestered spot, assuming the appearance of neglected 
nature, where the purling stream murmurs through the thicket with 
its soothing notes reverberated and softened amid the trees, until 
through the vista opening on the decorated scenery the eye is gra- 
tified and the heart delighted ? Language can but faintly express 
these beauties : here it must pause; it cannot communicate the full 
and true touch of nature, her living and endless varieties of form and 
colours — so varied are the scenes which she exhibits, and so infinite 
their combinations and their peculiarities. 



" And oh ! the transport most allied to song, 
In some fair villa's peaceful bound, 



ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 



85 



To catch soft hints from Nature''s tongue, 

And bid Arcadia bloom around ; 

Whether we fringe the sloping hill, 

Or smooth below the verdant mead — 

Whether we break the falling rill. 

Or through meandering mazes lead, 

Or in the horrid brambles' room, 

Bid careless groups of roses bloom — 

Or let some sheltered lake serene 

Reflect the groves and brighten all the scene," 

The decorative scenery which surrounds a country villa will ever 
be esteemed in proportion to the effect which it produces upon the 
spectator : but it is not sufficient that these objects, individually con- 
sidered, are beautiful while partially or wholly displayed from the 
walks ; there is an effect to be produced by those objects which come 
into combination with the distance as seen from the windows : from 
these points all that the eye embraces should unite in presenting one 
harmonious picture. The foreground is rendered ornamental by art, 
and as far as the Landscape Gardener can operate, the distance is 
combined with the scene, and objectionable parts have been planted 
out or obscured ; and art has also assisted in obtaining a just op- 
position of tone, by robing the grounds to harmonize with the ad- 
jacent scenery. Space does not always give the idea of grandeur ; a 
more limited sphere is often better adapted to the display of orna- 
ment and beauty. 



8G ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 

The characteristics of a pleasure-ground should be elegance, va- 
riety and harmony ; by judicious contrasts in the distribution of 
flower-beds, shrubs and plantations, with other tasteful and appro- 
priate decorations. The flower-garden is an indispensable appendage 
to the pleasure-ground, where the gems of nature are to expand in 
all their variegated charms of form and hue. The splendour of their 
blooms should not be visible from distant parts of the ground : the 
minutiae of their beauties demands a nearer view, to note their 

" Infinite numbers, delicacies, smells. 
With hues on hues expression cannot paint, 
The breath of Nature, and her endless bloom." 

The character of the park should be grandeur, — presenting rich and 
extensive views, ornamented with well grouped plantations, which 
must be accommodated to the line of surface that nature has fur- 
nished ; and, to form a picturesque effect, the arrangement of objects 
should wear an easy irregularity in their outline, a lightness and 
airiness should pervade those in the foreground, and rude masses 
should be opened to give forms suited to the prevailing character of 
the scene. Unless the beauty and grandeur which objects separately 
possess appear to the observer, there is a faulty and injurious ar- 
rangement, arising from not having had a clear perception of the 
effect in the first instance. There must, necessarily, be considerable 
difference in the style of laying out grounds, which must depend on, 
or be adapted to, the extent or particular circumstances attached to 



ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 87 

situation. Upon a limited piece of ground, attached to a cottage 
or small villa, perhaps no greater portion than may be compre- 
hended in the view from the villa should receive much embellish- 
ment ; and the endeavour must be to introduce as great a variety 
as can consistently be admitted : but an extensive piece of ground 
affords proportionate opportunity for the Landscape Gardener to 
display taste and ingenuity in producing ornamental and picturesque 
effect ; as a greater diversity of subjects, both natural and artificial, 
may be judiciously and appropriately introduced. Prospects from 
different points of view, vistas, groves, lakes, temples, statuary, &c., 
with their addition of individual beauty, give to the whole an 
imposing effect of magnificence. 

Taking a general view of the modern art of Gardening, its supe- 
riority to the antiquated style must be obvious to those who possess 
taste, and delight in Landscape scenery. A natural irregularity has 
superseded the stiff geometrical system — the square and compass 
have given place to a graceful freedom, embracing the elegancies 
of taste and art, both of which are intimately blended with the 
operations of the Landscape Gardener. 

It is now surprising that the beauty of a garden could ever be 
thought to consist in nicely measured parallel lines, in justly regu- 
lated squares, in truly drawn circles or geometrical forms with sides 
precisely corresponding, and ornaments of stone, placed throughout 
with undeviating exactitude. Yet while Landscape Gardening has 



g8 ON GENERAL APPEARANCES. 

been undergoing a change, some portion of the formality of the old 
style has been retained, by having the plantations in curved, instead 
of straight lines ; yet in these a formality remained, although it was 
perhaps rendered less offensive. The transition would have been 
too violent in the first instance, perhaps, to have adopted, in the place 
of uniform and mathematical lines, natural and graceful forms. As 
much has been gradually attained as could possibly be expected : the 
old system had been adhered to for centuries, consequently the 
modern style had much to contend against, in eradicating the pre- 
judices which continued to exist. It was, indeed, an undertaking 
of an arduous nature; however, the barrier being broken through, 
the citadel has surrendered, and the rapid progress this art has made 
is as triumphant as it is delightful : but let it not be imagined 
that the summit of the art has been attained ; much remains to be 
accomplished in furthering a taste for natural scenery, or such as 
approximates in form and tone to the beautiful and picturesque. 

It is in the construction of the house and offices the greatest 
conveniences are expected to be found, and regularity in some de- 
gree may assist in furthering the end desired : but these principles 
do not attach to the constructing of the pleasure-grounds; here 
the introduction of well-selected objects, possessing the calmness 
or the wildness of nature, and the removal of objects that may im- 
pede the view of scenes more consistent with the grand original, 
is a desideratum in Landscape Gardening. 




i 



DESCRIPTION OF THE PLATES. 



PLATE I. 

Represents different situations of Country Residences, the extremes 
of hill and dale, and the intermediate or preferable situation, as 
described in Essay I. 

PLATE II. 

Plan of a Country Villa, with the Offices, Pleasure-grounds, &c. 
adjoining ; the numbers refer to the respective parts. 

1. The Villa. 

2. Drying Ground and Domestic Offices. 

3. Stables. 

4. Kitchen Garden. 

5. Forcing Houses and Melon Grounds. 

6. Orchard. 

- - N 



90 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLATES. 

7. Conservatory. 

8. Flower Garden. 

9. Lawn. 

10. Arboretum. 

11. Ground for American Plants. 

12. Green-houses. 

13. Water and Rock-work. 

14. Summer-houses and Seats. 

15. Park. 

16. Lodge Gate. 

In the Park are vistas, (see Plate VI.) through which the eye is di- 
rected to parts of the Water, and interesting portions of the Sce- 
nery. The principal Road is shown with reference to the description 
in Essay III. The Ground behind the Villa is supposed to have 
a gradual ascent, and to be covered with Plantations. 

PLATE III. 

Is a Ground Plan of a Flower Garden and Rosary. The Flower 
Garden is in the style of irregularly-shaped beds, as described in 
Essay III. The Walks consist of a principal Path from the House ; 
a second from the shady Wood-walks; and a third through the 
Arboretum, from which another branches to the Rosary. 



DESCRIPTION OF THE PLATES. 91 

PLATE IV. 

Is intended to show the means by which an unsightly mass of 
Earth, or an incongruous piece of Rock, covered with a clump, 
may be converted into an interesting feature in the Decorations 
of a Villa. It shows the effect of judiciously cutting away parts 
of the wood to obtain prospects ; and it exhibits the improve- 
ments which may be made by Planting a few Flowering Shrubs, in 
agreement with the change of scene thus effected, and described 
in Essay VI. 

PLATE V. 

Represents the pleasing effect which may be produced by the Fall 
of a Sheet of Water over masses of Rock. In this Scene the 
trees are intended to be shown as having been planted expressly 
to exhibit the wildness of Natural Scenery, as alluded to in 
Essay V. 

PLATE VI. 

Shows the effect of opening a Belt, by judiciously thinning the 
Trees ; and by the introduction of some of different species ; through 
which, as through a vista, the preferable parts of the Scenery, near 
or remote, may be seen, as described in Essay VII. 



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